Verve. December 2019. Issue 162.

— AUCKLAND’S FAVOURITE LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE — PRICELESS ISSUE 162 — DECEMBER 2019

Life's Sweet with Longboys

Seaside Social

Christmas Delights

— FASHION BEAUTY HEALTH HOME DESIGN/ARTS FOOD/WINE TRAVEL SOCIETY SWERVE

Cindy Yu RESIDENTIAL SALES #1 Salesperson, Parnell Branch, first 6 months 2019 #1 Salesperson, Parnell Branch 2018/2019 #1 Salesperson, Parnell Branch 2017/2018 #1 Salesperson, Parnell Branch 2016/2017 #1 Salesperson, Parnell Branch 2014/2015 #1 Salesperson, Parnell Branch 2013/2014

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Simon Williams | Sunlight Over St Stephens Chapel | Oi l on canvas | 91 x 183 cm | $7,950

Eugenea | Golden Light, Parnell Village | Oil on canvas | 30 x 40 cm | $4,250

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Box™ - Multi Award Winning

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Kia ora koutou, I just wanted to say a huge thank you to all of you guys for making this whole process so easy for us. Your care and attention for the project was evident to us throughout the project.

We appreciate the approach that Box™ has taken from the start to the finish. I think the fact that we can say we enjoyed the process is nothing short of amazing...especially as we have friends who have been building at the same time and they feel as if they are in the middle of a nightmare that won’t end!

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UP FRONT

Important message if you are planning to paint a multi-million dollar home in Auckland. Don’t spend a single dollar until you read our free report The Insider’s Guide to Painting A Multi-Million Dollar Home in Auckland.

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IN THIS GUIDE YOU WILL LEARN: • Why the first step in your painting job is to identify your I.O. (And why this is so important) • The three expensive mistakes to avoid when painting a multi-million dollar Auckland home • How to quickly tell which painting contractors will do the perfect painting job and which ones won’t • A clever way to make sure you compare ‘apples with apples’ with any painting quotes you receive • How to future proof your painting investment so it lasts at least 25% longer • A simple technique for identifying a common painting problem that 63% of multimillion dollar homes have

EDITORS-IN-CHIEF

SUBSCRIPTIONS

SENIOR WRITER

PUBLISHED BY VERVE MAGAZINE LTD

Fran Ninow and Jude Mitchell Jamie Christian Desplaces BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT MANAGER

Rima Tellis

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Go to WALLTREATS.CO.NZ to order your free copy of the insider’s guide to painting your multi-million dollar home in auckland or phone us on 0800 008 168

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Longboys, gourmet finger doughnuts. Follow Longboys on Instagram: @longboys_uk

Follow Verve on Facebook and Instagram @vervemagazine VERVE MAGAZINE is published monthly (except in January) and has an estimated readership of 60,000. It is a free lifestyle magazine delivered to selected homes, cafés and businesses in Parnell, Newmarket, Remuera, Meadowbank, Epsom, Mission Bay, Kohimarama, Herne Bay, Takapuna and Devonport. Verve Magazine is placed in magazine stands for free collection from locations in Parnell, Newmarket, Remuera, Epsom, Mission Bay, St. Heliers, Ponsonby, Grey Lynn, Herne Bay, Auckland City, Takapuna, Devonport, Stonefields, Milford and Mairangi Bay. Visit ververmagazine.co.nz for exact locations these magazine stands. Verve is also available from all popular cafés in its main distribution areas as well as in ebook format. Visit vervemagazine. co.nz to sign up for your free monthly ebook. Verve is printed by Ovato. It is distributed by PMP Distribution, Admail and Mailchimp. vervemagazine.co.nz The entire content of this publication is protected by copyright. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, without prior permission in writing of the copyright owner. Any material submitted for publication is at the owner’s risk. Neither Verve Magazine Ltd nor its agents accept any responsibility for loss or damage. Although every effort has been made to ensure accuracy of information contained in this publication, the publisher cannot accept any liability for inaccuracies that may occur. The views and suggestions expressed in this magazine are those of individual contributors and are not necessarily supported by Verve Magazine Ltd.

V ERV E M AGA ZIN E .CO.N Z

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UP FRONT

W H AT 'S I N S I DE? Upfront 14 Happy Holidays from the Verve Team Food 20 Sarah Glover 28 Life's Sweet 34 Thyme & Lemon Shortbread Recipe 50 A Night Out with Kouzina

Children's Feature 58 Kidding Around: Great Ideas For Children's Rooms 64 Kid's Bedroom Design Competition Home & Design 74 Seaside Social

Fashion 120 Festive Pieces Art & About 156 What's On! Win 176 Win With Verve

Journeys 108 Zodiak Management

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Photo by Lui sa Brim b l e fro m Sa ra h G l ove r 's, Wild Adventure Cook b o o k

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V ERV E M AGA ZIN E .CO.N Z

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Ham: Leonard’s Christmas Ham

Photography — Sophie Chan Andreassend

Fran

Jude

We never know for sure exactly what is around the corner, but what we do know is that there will undoubtedly be challanges; life is full of them!

I am finding it difficult to believe we have published our beautiful December issue – now it's time to breathe and smell the roses!

I’m grateful for the year I have had: the many celebrations with my family; travelling to Venice with Dane’s work at the Biennale; celebrating with my daughter, Paris, on a daily basis her amazing work with Paris Gerogia; and my other son, Jess, in New York who has given me two beautiful granddaughters. I feel incredibly grateful for my life, for being well and having a wonderful family and friends that are all around me. It’s important to celebrate life on a daily basis and be grateful for what we all have.

I’m getting myself ready for a holiday to the Coromandel to relax, sleep, laugh and dance.

My 2018 and 2019 certainly had their fair share of curve balls but somehow, here I am at the end of another year, feeling even stronger, and hopefully a wiser person. I am thankful to my colleagues, clients, friends and family for their support in keeping me centred and sane. I look forward to a brilliant summer break, cannot wait.

My wish to all Verve readers is that you too enjoy an amazing holiday, time with your favourite people, cosy conversations, fabulous food and drink, and the chance to reflect on time past, opportunities ahead, and life in general. xx Fran

So yes, feeling incredibly lucky and a big thank you to all our advertisers and readers who embrace Verve on a monthly basis. Take care everyone, travel safe.

Cake: Vaniyé

Christine

Rima

The year has passed so swiftly and here we are about to embark on 2020.

Me: “I want a Hippogriff for Christmas” Santa: “Be realistic” Me: “Okay. I want 5 minutes to myself each day to drink my coffee hot and wine ice-cold.”

Santa: “What colour Hippogriff would you like?”

I look forward to spending a wonderful Christmas Day with my family where we will enjoy each others company, eat lots and spoil the children and pets. It is a time for reflection, to remember those not with us and to be grateful for what we have in our beautiful country.

Wishing all our readers and the Verve team a safe and happy Christmas.

Sigh, fruit cakes and rum and spices and ham roasts… When it starts to smell like Christmas, it’s hard not to get into the spirit. Christmas is extra special when you spend it with people you care about, and I’m so lucky I get to spend it with my mum and best friends this year! I hope this Christmas, your life be filled with happiness and prosperity always and may your eggnog be spiked with plenty of rum to get you through this holiday season and into a smashing 2020.

PS: Don't let anyone make you believe that Santa doesn’t exist.

Cake: Vaniyé \ White bread plate and long drink glass from Day and Age

Jamie I’ll be spending Christmas with friends and family in Birmingham, and Hogmanay among the romance of the Scottish Highlands, where, excitingly, I’ll also be attending a murder mystery night. Maybe you’ll read all about it in Verve in 2020, providing I make it out alive…

Merry Christmas dear readers, and all the best for the new year.

Dave

Cake: Amy's Kitchen

For me, Christmas is a time of great joy, tempered with a hint of reflection. I thankfully have a young family that still believes in the magical Christmas season (something that requires a fair share of lighthearted skulduggery to keep the spirit alive, I can tell you), but I also always spare a thought (and raise a glass) for those that can't be with us.

Take time to relax and recharge, regardless of what the ghost of Christmas past has delivered or what the future has in store, I urge you to simply enjoy the moment. Merry Christmas, be safe and see you all in 2020.

Top Left - Right: Christine, Ken, AJ, Zanalee, Dave, Fran, Jude,Jeff and Rima

Zanalee

Ken

I cannot wait to relax and just take a breather these holidays. Spending time with family and friends and reconnecting with my arts and crafts.

It's been a busy year, with much learning in life, work and education. So, these holidays I’m very much looking forward to taking the time to relax and reflect with friends and family—with plenty of celebrating too. I’m thrilled to be graduating with my masters in 2020 and can’t wait to travel and live life to the fullest.

A massive shout out to my team mates who have kept me going this year, much love to you all.

Keep your head up and happy holidays family.

Stay safe, wishing you all the best.

AJ

Jeff

Over Christmas and New Year's I'm looking forward to a much needed break for a few days!

Will be spending Christmas doing the usual traditions - Christmas lights on Franklin Road, ice skating at Motat and spending time with friends and extended family over the holiday period. Will be spending time with my nana in the new year and look forward to hopefully planning a trip overseas in 2020.

This year will be completely different from previous Christmases as it will be one spent far away from my family and hometown of Konstanz in Germany.

Also, it will be warm instead of the usual snowy one—which does offer a more festive feeling.

I will be touring South Island, so will be either alone or with other travellers, but I find not knowing exactly what’s in store both motivating and exciting.

I have wonderful childhood memories of Christmas, watching feel-good movies and spending time with my family. They are memories that fill me with joy, and I look forward to creating many new ones in New Zealand.

DEC 2019

Sarah G LOV E R

We catch up with chef, Bondi Bikkies owner and Foodie Gang Blog founder, Sarah Glover.

P H O T O G R AP H Y— L U I S A B R I M B L E

Australian chef, Sarah Glover, has taken her love of cooking to the unlikeliest of places. By cooking off cliffsides, grilling in grassy clearings and dining on a deserted beach, Sarah is revered for her ability to forage foods and create a feast.

Verve sat down with Sarah to discuss the success of her cookbook, Wild Adventure Cookbook, as well as her cookies business, Bondi Bikkies. Sarah also shared some of her favourite recipes with us that will allow you to transition from tasty starters to decadent desserts with ease.

You started your career at a very young age, did you expect that it would get to this level?

To be honest I always knew I wanted to be someone that educated and influenced people and so with that comes a following, but I had no idea that it would be doing what I do nor that social media would even be a thing. I think when I was 16 Myspace was about the extent of social online media, I still remember having to dial up with the phone to get internet!

What made you want to start Bondi Bikkies? Do you prefer to do the pastry baking required of your shop or cook al fresco meals like the recipes included in your cookbook?

I actually started making cookies before I was cooking over open fire. I always made them for my mates around town when we went on surf missions across Tasmania, so when I was jobless in Sydney I just started to bake cookies and cakes for a friend's cafe and it snowballed from there. I really love both for equal reasons. I love being domestic and baking and I love getting outdoors and cooking over a fire. I guess I'm just one of those girls you cant box in.

Who are your greatest influences, both in cooking and in how you approach life?

I would have to say my faith and value system influences my lifestyle approach, and also my passion for the ocean and water, it all seems to be related. I'm not sure if it's one person in particular as it would be more a collective of people, for different reasons. I love some powerful surfer women that have done amazing things for us females in the water, and then the same for the cooking industry, its amazing how the world of cooking and lifestyle has become so accessible. I’ve always been inspired by people being authentic about their creativity and talent. You can be talented but it takes drive, commitment, humility and a tolerant openness, but yet a strong sense of self . Its really a life journey, you cant just say one thing for one day and not do it the next, you really have to practise what you preach and be willing to go the long haul.

Was it always your dream to write a cookbook? Did you expect your Kickstarter campaign to gain as much traction as it did?

Yes it was always a dream of mine, for as long as I can remember. To be honest I never thought of doing a Kickstarter. Luisa was the one who suggested it and then I knew it was the only way for me.

Would you recommend using sites such as Kickstarter to fund a self-publishing project? How did you find that self-publishing differed from the traditional publishing experience?

For sure, it's a great way to fund a project, be accountable and build confidence in yourself, the options to do things outside of the box now days is amazing and people love it.

You have a very unique, adventurous approach to cooking that a lot of people find endearing. How do you feel that this authenticity is transported into your cookbook, Wild Adventure?

I feel its 100% authentic, we shot that book not knowing it even was a book, so we really just went out and had fun. I feel that comes across in my recipes and the photos. I'm so proud of my first book and can't wait for the release of my second in April 2021.

How do you feel that your training in nutrition and your related passion for healthy eating influenced the recipes that you included in WILD? I'm so passionate about having a balanced lifestyle, caring for the land and having a holistic approach to life. I feel that the recipes in Wild were just that, we found the produce on the road and made it as I went along, beside the 'Cake' chapter that is!

How has your home, Tasmania, inspired your cooking?

I didn't realise that it did till I started to cook. Then I found that what I grew up with, like farmers' markets, hunting and surfing all of which influenced so much of what I am. I am so proud to be from Tasmania and for the heritage that I have.

How much do your recipes change seasonally?

All the time, colours, seasons affect your taste and feelings but I feel that my recipes can be interchanged if you have a bit of imagination, and that's the purpose of the book, to awaken your imagination and open yourself up to seeing the world and cooking though another lens.

Over the next few pages we have few recipes from Sarah's new book, Wild Adventure Cookbook.

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DEC 2019

C HARG R I LL E D C HEE S E S W I T H E NDIVE & W I L D HONEYC O M B Feeds 5

Ingredient s • 2 endives, quartered lengthwise • 250g halloumi cheese, sliced • 200g mozzarella, sliced • 2x 200g rounds of soft cheese, such as brie or camembert • honeycomb • grilled bread or baguette

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Equipme nt Cast-iron pan Method Light your fire 30 minutes before you are ready to cook and let it burn down until you obtain a low heat.

Place a cast-iron pan on the fire so it gets nice and hot. Place the endive in the pan and cook for about five minutes, letting it develop some good char. Add the cheeses and cook until golden and starting to melt. Flip the halloumi and mozzarella – don’t turn the soft cheese over as it will fall apart.

Once the cheeses are cooked and the endives are charred, break the honeycomb into pieces and arrange on top. Serve with grilled bread.

Rec ipe / Sa ra h G l ove r | Bo o k / Wil d Adve nt ure Co o kb o o k

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Feed s 4

S E A TO RT I LL AS , CAL A MARI & P R IC K LY SA LSA

DEC 2019

Ingred ie nt s • 2 cups bread flour • 1 cup sea water strained through a muslin cloth • 2 tablespoons grapeseed oil • 12 prickly pears • 3 black radishes, thinly sliced with a mandolin • 3 red radishes, thinly sliced with a mandolin • juice of 1 lime • flour, for dusting • grapeseed oil, for basting • 2 calamari, cleaned, ink sacks removed and cut so it opens out in 1 piece • bunch of coriander • 3 pigface flowers or aloe vera, petals picked and washed • bunch of yellow wood sorrel or regular sorrel • lime juice Equipm e nt Camping grill campfire fish grill

M et h o d While the tortilla dough is resting, prepare your salsa.

Wave the prickly pears over an open flame to remove the prickles, then halve them and scoop out the flesh, discarding the skin and any seeds. Dice the flesh and gently toss in a bowl with the radishes and lime juice, then set aside to marinate.

Have your camping grill hot at 200°C and ready for the tortillas. Divide the dough into golf-ball-sized portions and roll out as thinly as possible. I used a wine bottle to do this, with a little extra flour for dusting so it doesn’t stick. Cook the tortillas on the wire part of the camping grill or in a heavy based pan for about one minute on each side – they will puff up and char a little. Set aside and cover with a damp tea towel while you cook the rest.

Rub some oil into the calamari and place them on the wire side of the grill or use a campfire fish grill. Cook until the skin starts to blister, about five minutes, then flip and repeat, using tongs if needed. Cut into thin strips and set aside for your tacos.

Assembling the taco is really up to you. I get a tortilla, put the calamari in first, then the salsa and garnish it with cilantro, pigface flowers and some wood sorrel, and finish with a squeeze of lime. Can be cooked in a cast-iron frying pan on a gas cooker.

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25

Re c i pe / Sa rah G lover | B o ok / Wi l d Adve n tu re C oo kb o o k

Tips Tip the flour into a bowl and make a well in the centre. Pour the sea water and grapeseed oil into the well and mix with your hands until it comes together. (If you are not near the sea, use regular water, adding 1 teaspoon of salt for every cup/240ml of water.) Knead for 2-3 minutes or until the dough becomes smooth. Cover and allow to rest for 30 minutes.

FOOD & WINE

I n g red i en t s • 1 cup plus 2 tablespoons salted butter, chopped • 250g dark chocolate, chopped • 3 cups plus 2 tablespoons granulated sugar • 1 3⁄4 cups all-purpose flour • 1⁄2 cup cocoa powder • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 6 eggs, lightly beaten • 100g dark pieces (optional) • 1 recipe of whip icing • 1⁄4 cup plus 2 tablespoons cocoa powder (optional) • 1 tablespoon milk (optional)

M et h o d Preheat the oven to 180°C and grease your desired pan. I used small cake pans, but you can switch it out and use a 23cm round cake pan if preferred – just keep in mind that it may take longer to bake in the round pan; cover it with foil if it starts to brown too much.

Place the butter and chocolate in a heatproof bowl set over a saucepan of simmering water, making sure the bottom of the bowl does not touch the water. Stir with a metal spoon until melted and combined. Remove from the heat.

Place the sugar, flour, cocoa powder, and vanilla in a bowl and mix until just combined. Make a well in the centre and add the eggs. Pour in the melted chocolate mixture and whisk until combined.

C HOC OL AT E / F ING ERS Feeds 6 Re c ipe / Sa ra h G l ove r Book / Wild Adve n tu re C o o k b o o k

V ERV E M AGA ZIN E .CO.N Z

Pour the batter into the prepared pan and add the extra chocolate if you like a good chocolate fix. Bake for 30 minutes or until the middle of the top is set and wobbles a little but the edges have developed a crust. Set aside to cool completely – you can even let this cool in the fridge before turning out and icing.

Get your icing ready. If you really want to max out the chocolate, add the cocoa powder and milk and mix it in well. Decorate the cake in any way you like, but have fun with it! Cakes aren’t meant to be serious, and if you stuff it up, just eat it and make another one.

Ingredient s • 3⁄4 cup plus 3 tablespoons salted butter, softened • 1⁄2 cup plus 1 tablespoon brown sugar • 1 1⁄2 cups golden syrup • 2 eggs • 1 cup milk • 1 teaspoon baking soda, dissolved in a little water

• 4 cups all-purpose flour • 4 tablespoons ground ginger • 3 teaspoons ground cinnamon • 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg • 3⁄4 cup walnuts, chopped • 3 cups confectioners’ sugar • 1⁄3 cup whiskey • chopped walnuts (optional)

Feed s 6

G R ANN Y ’ S \ G I N G ER

DEC 2019

M et h o d Preheat the oven to 180°C and grease your desired pan. I used a tall Bundt cake pan because I liked the shape and lines it made, but you can switch it out and use a 20cm loaf pan if preferred.

Rec i pe / Sa rah G l over | B oo k / Wi ld Ad ve nt u re C o o k b oo k

Cream the butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy, then add the golden syrup and the eggs one at a time, beating well between each addition.

Whisk together the milk and baking soda mixture, then fold into the butter mixture.

Sift the flour, ginger, cinnamon and nutmeg over the cake batter mixture, add the walnuts and stir until just combined. Pour into the prepared pan and bake for 30-40 minutes or until the top of the cake bounces back when you touch it (be careful because it will be hot!). Set aside to cool for a few minutes in the pan, then turn out onto a wire rack to cool completely.

Place the confectioners’ sugar in a bowl and gradually pour in the whiskey, whisking until combined and there aren’t any lumps. Put a tray under the cake rack to catch the drippings, then pour the glaze evenly over the cake. Sprinkle with extra walnuts, if you like, and serve.

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27

FOOD & WINE

LIFE’S SWEET Chef Heather Kaniuk admits to not “really having too many career expectations” when she left for London as a 20-year-old. But, having trained at the likes of Peter Gordon’s The Providores and Tapa Room and Gordon Ramsay’s Maze, she then worked as head chef aboard super yachts and executive pastry chef at a pair of London’s most prestigious five-star hotels— Shangri-La at the Shard and Hyde Park’s Mandarin Oriental—while bagging several industry awards along the way. Heather’s now one of the most talked about pastry chef’s in the business.

“I simply wanted to explore the diversity of cuisines and culinary talent in Europe that wasn’t accessible in New Zealand at the time,” says Heather of her initial move.

“I dived in at the deep end, working through Michelinstarred restaurants, and the change of pace from New Zealand kitchens was phenomenal.”

Do you feel it’s a prerequisite for chefs to travel?

“Nowadays there is such a high-quality and diverse food scene in New Zealand, with so many amazing flavours and tastes, but when I was starting out, things like olive oil and pimento were relatively new there. Now, Kiwi chefs are doing amazing things with native ingredients which is bringing New Zealand cuisine to the forefront.

Hospitality is certainly an industry that allows you to travel with ease, and any young chef will no doubt grow from a stint overseas.”

In 2017, Heather co-founded (with Graham Hornigold) consultation and patisserie management company, Smart Patisserie, to help train chefs and develop and grow restaurants. A move that, says, Heather, allows her to “give something back to the industry”. Growing up with teacher parents, I wonder, must have been beneficial in this regard.

“My parents taught me to have a solid work ethic, and this no doubt helped not just my own career, but in guiding younger chefs,” Heather says. “I love to teach and pass on my knowledge—this is probably the most rewarding part of my job.”

DEC 2019

Heather also points to there only being five to 10 percent coverage of women in pastry magazines “if you’re lucky”, despite there, statistically, being more women in the role.

I ask what encouraged the chef to make the move from the savoury kitchen to the sweet one.

“I had always loved baking and the sweeter side of the kitchen, but was initially drawn to the thrill of service in the hot kitchen,” she says. “The adrenaline kick you get from a busy service is addictive, requiring speed, precision and accuracy. I soon discovered the value of being able to handle all sections of the kitchen, and, at the time, it wasn’t uncommon for restaurants to bundle the dessert section together with the starters. It wasn’t until I came to Europe that I discovered not only was being a pastry chef an actual role in itself, but attitudes towards pasty were more revered, and it was considered a specialist skill.”

There is such artistry to Heather’s creations. I ask if any chef can achieve such standards, or, like many other artforms, there is an element of natural flair. She believes there’s “an element of nature versus nurture”, good pastry chefs must be “well-organised, precise and patient” with a tendency to prefer the cooler calm of the pastry section rather than the “rough and tumble of the hot kitchen”.

Were there other aspects of your upbringing that helped shape your career overseas?

“New Zealanders are well-respected around the world and this has definitely helped in many a situation. We are naturally laid-back and get on with others, which helps with the team building aspect of kitchens.”

Such an approach must certainly have come in useful in the high-pressure environment of Gordon Ramsey’s kitchen, in particular. I ask Heather if she was ever on the receiving end of one of the chef’s outlandish outbursts.

“Over the years you develop your own interests, a mix of your own experiences and the chefs that have trained and mentored you. The difficulty these days is that a lot of young chefs tend to emulate what they see on social media rather than take the time to develop their own style. Throughout my career, I always worked for specific establishments or chefs that I wanted to learn from. I think that this approach affords you a more rounded skill set.”

“The Maze kitchen was notorious for shouting and swearing,” she says, “and I don’t think anyone really escaped the rants—though they were usually from the head and sous chefs rather than Gordon himself. I’ve ducked a few flying pans, been manhandled, and heard far too many insults to name.”

Historically a notoriously male-dominated industry, Heather says that though much has been done to fix the imbalance of power, more progress is required. “It’s a complex issue,” she continues. “Hospitality is not the most flexible when it comes to balancing a career with childcare, for example.

Sexism still exists, in my first executive role in a five-star hotel I was asked to wear a pink apron—why? Ethnic minorities, too, remain vastly underrepresented. I was once given this great advice: if you can affect those in your immediate surroundings, long-term, you will begin to create ripples of change. So, I’ve always tried to mentor young women chefs to be resilient, giving them the tools to succeed and thrive.”

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29

CHRISTMAS PUDDING PARFAIT

CANDIED ORANGE ZEST

Ingredients

Ingredients

• • • • •

• • • •

100g egg yolks 40g caster sugar 30g glucose 300g whipping cream 150g Christmas pudding, chopped

• Place the egg yolks in the bowl of a stand mixer.

Whisk on high speed until thick and creamy.

• Put the sugar and glucose in a small saucepan, cover with a little water. Bring to the boil and using a sugar thermometer, cook the syrup to 118°.

• While still whisking, slowly pour the syrup onto the egg yolks, and continue to whisk until the sabayon has cooled.

• Separately, whip the cream to soft peaks.

• Fold the cream into the cooled sabayon, then lastly, fold in the chopped Christmas pudding.

• Set into ring moulds, or alternatively glasses.

Freeze.

CHOCOLATE CREMEUX Ingredients • • • • • •

200g whipping cream 50g milk 50g egg yolks 120g Dark chocolate, chopped 70g Milk chocolate, chopped 25g butter, softened

• Place the egg yolks in a bowl.

• Bring the cream and milk to the boil in a saucepan. Pour the boiling cream over the yolks, whisking well.

• Return the mixture to the pan and cook until the custard thickens slightly.

• Pour the custard onto the chocolates and allow to melt. Whisk until smooth.

• Add the butter and whisk until smooth and glossy. Allow to set in the fridge.

2 oranges 100g caster sugar 100g orange juice 20g glucose

• Peel the oranges and finely slice the zest into long strips.

• Blanch and refresh the zest three times.

• Place in a small saucepan with the sugar, juice and glucose and cook until translucent over a low heat.

HONEY CARAMELISED ORANGES Ingredients • 2 oranges • 50g honey • 100g orange juice • Segment the oranges.

• Heat the honey is a saucepan. Once boiling, continue to cook until the honey starts to caramelize. It will start to darken slightly and give a fragrant smell at this point but be careful not to cook too far or it will burn and become bitter.

• Add the orange juice, bring to the boil.

• Pour the syrup over the orange segments.

Allow to marinate four hours, or overnight.

ASSEMBLY • Remove the parfaits from the freezer.

• Pipe small dots of the cremeux, and garnish with the honeyed oranges, dried cranberry, pistachios and candied zest.

MAKES 8

Heather’s latest lip-smacking project is Longboys, a range of revolving premium finger doughnuts that see seasonal fruits such as raspberry, lychee, peach or rhubarb paired with the likes of toasted almonds, sticky toffee and custard.

“We wanted to create a unique product that allowed us to incorporate high-end technique and flavours into a more accessible dish,” Heather says. “I’ve always been partial to a jam and cream filled doughnut, and these have fallen out of fashion in recent times, so we thought we’d bring them back.

But they have been modernised for the current market.”

Our philosophy towards pastry is to reduce the overall sweetness, so we tend to produce everything inhouse. We cut back on sugar where we can and rely more on the natural sweetness of the seasonal fruits.

You must possess masses of willpower to not constantly be snacking on your wonderful sweet treats?

“I do have a fairly sweet tooth, but balance it out with lots of salads too! Our philosophy towards pastry is to reduce the overall sweetness, so we tend to produce everything inhouse. We cut back on sugar where we can and rely more on the natural sweetness of the seasonal fruits. There’s nothing worse than ending a meal and feeling sick from overly sweet, cloying and heavy desserts.”

Longboys are currently available from stalls at some of London’s hippest locations such as Wembley Boxpark and Selfridges Food Hall, but the burning question is, are there any plans to bring them to Aotearoa?

“We’d love to! Perhaps a summer pop-up, any excuse to come home. If you hear of any opportunities, we’re all ears.”

Heather adds that she’s always excited to get back and learn about the latest happenings in the New Zealand food scene: “I’ve got many good chef friends in New Zealand and love seeing what they are up to. There is a generation of chefs who left New Zealand to develop their careers and have now returned with a wealth of knowledge and the scene has really matured.”

I finish up by asking Heather about her Christmas plans.

“I love Christmas at home, but sadly do not get to spend it in New Zealand often—this needs to change. Being with my family at Christmas is precious, and the memories are special. But I must admit, I do also love the festivities of a traditional European Christmas. My partner is British, and cooks the best roast dinner with all the trimmings—we light the fire, eat mince pies and drink mulled wine.”

Words: Jamie Christian Desplaces

CHRISTMAS PUDDING PARFAIT, CARAMELISED ORANGE, CHOCOLATE CREMEUX

Thyme & Lemon Shortbread

Serves: 6

These shortbread are buttery, delicate, crumbly and crisp and spiked with lemon and thyme.

Read the tips below for making the perfect shortbread.

Cook time: 20–25 Minutes

INGREDIENTS

METHOD

• • • • •

Preheat oven to 150°C. Line two baking trays with baking paper.

• •

175g plain flour 1⁄3 cup caster sugar 75g fine polenta or semolina 1 free-range egg yolk finely grated zest of 1 lemon 2–3 teaspoons finely chopped thyme leaves 175g cold butter, cubed (see Tip)

Combine flour, caster sugar, polenta/semolina, egg yolk, lemon zest and thyme in a large bowl. Add butter and use your fingertips to gently rub it in until mixture resembles fine breadcrumbs.

Alternatively, place ingredients in a food processor and pulse until mixture resembles breadcrumbs.

Bring dough together with your hands and shape into two balls. Wrap balls in clingfilm and refrigerate for five minutes to firm up a little.

On a clean, dry, lightly floured surface, roll a ball of dough out to 0.5–0.75cm thickness. Use a cookie cutter (approximately 6cm diameter) to cut into rounds. Whilst quite delicate to work with, shortbread dough is very forgiving. So, if the mixture starts crumbling or breaking up, don’t fret as you can just press and patch it back together with your fingers — you can even add leftover bits of dough to help patch up cracked bits!

Transfer to the prepared trays with the help of a metal fish slice or edge of a knife. Bake for 20–25 minutes or until shortbread is light golden around the edges. Swap the trays around halfway through cook time, so that the batches cook evenly.

Remove from oven and allow to cool on the trays for a few minutes.

Gently transfer shortbread to a wire rack to cool completely and let them crisp up. Store in an airtight container or cake tin — they will keep for a few weeks if they don’t get gobbled up before!

Tips

Recipes from Vegful by Nadia Lim. Available now.

The temperature of the butter is key — it must be cool or cold, not softened or melted, in order to get a flaky-textured shortbread.

• •

Avoid overmixing as it will result in a tough dough.

It can help to put the (uncooked) shortbread in the fridge for about 15 minutes before baking to help create a crisp texture.

V ERV E M AGA ZIN E .CO.N Z

Serves: 6

Rhubarb, Strawbs ’N’ Cream Loaded Shortbread Dessert doesn’t get any better than this. The combination of crisp, crumbly thyme and lemon shortbread, juicy, sweet, fragrant roasted rhubarb and strawberries and whipped cream is simply heavenly. All I can say is be generous with the fruit and cream!

Recipes from Vegful by Nadia Lim. Available now.

Flash-Roasted Rhubarb & Strawberries INGREDIENTS

METHOD

•

Preheat oven to 200°C. In a baking dish, toss together rhubarb, strawberries and sugar.

• • •

4 large stalks rhubarb, cut into 3–4cm lengths 400–500g strawberries, hulled and cut in half 3 tablespoons caster sugar 1 orange

Roast for 10–15 minutes until rhubarb is tender (test with the sharp tip of a knife).

Cut orange in half and squeeze over fruit in the baking dish. Allow fruit to cool.

Rhubarb, Strawbs ’N’ Cream Loaded Shortbread INGREDIENTS

METHOD

• • •

Whip cream to soft peaks, then fold in icing sugar and vanilla.

• •

500ml cream 2 tablespoons icing sugar 1 teaspoon vanilla bean paste or seeds of 1 vanilla bean pod 12–18 Thyme and Lemon Shortbread (refer to the page above) 1 quantity flash-roasted rhubarb and strawberries

Cook Time: 10–15 Minutes

To serve, divide shortbread between plates and top with a generous amount of whipped cream and flash-roasted rhubarb and strawberries.

Drizzle with syrup from the roasted fruit.

Cook Time: 10 Minutes

Serendipity

T H E STO RY O F I S L A N D G I N Andi Ross’s love affair with Great Barrier Island has spanned two decades and led to the creation of Island Gin. WO R D S — J E N N A M O O R E

It was late 1999 and Melbourne-born advertising creatives Andi and Jason Ross were working in Singapore when they were offered the chance to relocate to Auckland. They grabbed the opportunity to be closer to their homeland and made the move with their young daughters, India (now 23) and two-monthold Trinity (now 19), in tow.

W H AT ’ S A BAC H? After settling into Auckland life, Andi spied a tiny ad in the paper for a bach on Medlands Beach, Great Barrier Island. It piqued her interest and sparked the questions: ‘Where is Great Barrier Island?’ and ‘What is a bach?’

She soon discovered Great Barrier is a remote, off-thegrid, 285-square-kilometre island in the Hauraki Gulf, 100 kilometres northeast of central Auckland; and a bach is the Kiwi word for holiday shack.

CA RP E D I EM Intrigued, she boarded a small plane to go and check it out. “When I arrived I had a feeling of belonging,” remembers Andi. “I cajoled Jason into coming over and a couple of weeks later it was ours. A close friend had recently passed away which was the impetus to ‘seize the day’ I think. There’s something about Great Barrier Island that gets under your skin.” That little bach became the family’s part-time base.

T H E A RT O F DIST ILL ING With the girls grown, Andi began experimenting with her go-to G&T. “There’s an old lemon grove at the southern end of the estuary – there are wonderful stories about it emerging from a shipwreck – and I’d chop the lemons and add them to my gin and tonic," she says. "Then, I tried adding a couple of teaspoons of local honey to see how it reacted. I purchased a small still from Alembics on Waiheke Island and experimented in my tiny kitchen.

I also did some workshops with various distilleries in Melbourne and in Tasmania. There are several female distillers in Australia so I joined the Australian Women in Distilling Association (AWDA), and I’m now a foundation member of the recently established Distilled Spirits Aotearoa.”

Andi designed a recipe she was happy with but needed to scale up. “I worked with a company in Melbourne who could help and brought back some bottles in 2017.

Tiddles, the owner of The Rocks Bottle Store in Claris on Great Barrier, said she’d be happy to sell it and it sold out.”

M A K ING IT H A P PE N “That’s when I thought, ‘Right, I’m going to do this, and why can’t it be done on the island?’ In some ways it’s more difficult and I needed to upgrade my still and jump through a lot of hoops but I was up for it,” says Andi. It took 18 months to get customs approval, work through the logistics with Auckland City Council, and upgrade her still.

DEC 2019

“Everything we’ve done has been with the island as a priority.”

RU T H A LL E N G L AS SB LOW E R THE DI STI LLERY Struggling to find a site for the distillery Andi was on her way to catch the plane back to Auckland when a local suggested she look at some new premises in Kaitoke.

“Talk about serendipity,” she says. “I popped in en route to Barrier Air and discovered a perfect space.”

Andi’s friend and exceptionally talented glassblower, Ruth Allen, provides another repurposing option.

Ruth also divides her time between Great Barrier and Melbourne and is taking the empty Island Gin bottles to transform them into carafes in a 900-degree ‘glory hole’ in her hot shop in Melbourne.

Most of Island Gin’s ingredients are provided by the island but Andi needed to find juniper. Juniper’s a key ingredient in gin and it’s not grown in New Zealand.

Taking some cocktails to a friend with some mates she saw on the beach to try, the juniper situation came up and one of the mates in question turned out to be the head of a company that could bring juniper in.

“That’s how I sourced my certified organic Macedonian juniper,” smiles Andi.

37

THE RECYCLED GLASS BOT TLE When Andi’s old friend from Melbourne, Tanja Ledwich, came over for a girls’ weekend, the pair took inspiration from the kīna (also known as sea urchin) and came up with the design of the bottle. “But I didn’t know if it could be done,” she says.

Tracking down O-I New Zealand, whose sustainability ethos aligns with her own, Andi spoke to them to see if her bottle was possible. “They do big runs for some of the big beer and water brands — something like my bottle isn’t done in New Zealand — but they said, ‘You know what, we’ll give it a go.’ My bottle wouldn’t be in existence without them,” says Andi.

Originally wanting clear glass known as flint, Andi was offered another innovative solution. “They explored packing glass in between colour changes, in my case from sea green to arctic blue,” says Andi. “We worked with O-I using the available glass. I think part of the success of the bottles is the colour because it’s relatable to the kīna. It’s my hope that people will re-use the Island Gin bottles for water, olive oil or use them as a vase, but regardless glass is infinitely recyclable.”

ISL A ND G IN “Everything we’ve done has been with the island as a priority; with a population of about 1,000 people this place is like a microcosm of society, and very rare I think,” says Andi. “We use triple-filtered rain harvested water, which comes across from the Pacific Ocean and our honey, lemons and other botanicals are grown here.

The result is a slightly stronger gin. Most varieties are around 40/41% ABV (alcohol by volume), Island Gin is 43.2%. I recommend adding a fresh sprig of rosemary and tonic to it. I’m planning to experiment over summer and I’ve got my eye on some local seasonal tree blossoms I’d like to capture in a bottle to make a black label version.

“I feel very lucky and very grateful. There have been many crazy, miraculous moments and so much incredible support from the community and everyone involved in the development of Island Gin.”

ISL A N D G IN .CO M

WWW.COPIA.NZ / 09 520 2234 236 ORAKEI RD, REMUERA

DEC 2019

Inspired favourites at Copia Meet Copia, the relaxed eatery in Orakei Bay Village serving New Zealand inspired favourites, sustainably.

39 WO R D S — DAN I E L L E R AM AE K E R S / P H O T O G R AP H Y — J E F FAL O O

The lush garden out the back of Copia is as abundant as the restaurant's name suggests.

Built with a hands-on approach that characterises owners Ken O'Connell and Sam Sykes passion for sustainable business, the garden boasts microgreens, herbs, and edible flowers. Not to mention an incredible seaside view.

Plus, 40 years of combined experience in New Zealand and European Hatted and Michelin restaurants allows the owners to create high-end dining straight from their backyard — and only a short distance from yours.

You’ll find Copia nestled down the back of Orakei Bay Village, past Kings Plant Barn. With a sweeping view of Hobson Bay, this relaxed eatery suits a social dinner, seaside lunch, or courtyard cocktails with bar and shared platters.

It's the kind of place that will garner your interest as well as your taste buds. Ken and Sam claim their intuitive approach to cooking allows them to create quality food that's as intune with the seasons as they are in the kitchen.

The New Zealand inspired menu confirms it. Tantalising options include paua and squid croquettes and barbecue cabbage with horopito spiced minced pork, pear, and black garlic ketchup. Dishes vary according to what's growing in their self-maintained garden. With a focus on organic, plant-based food, vegetarians will be delighted with shiitake

mushroom, walnut and parmesan, roast cauliflower and puree. While carnivores can revel in farm-fed meat cooked in the kitchen's ceramic barbecue egg.

Copia’s extensive menu evolved after Ken and Sam spent eight years working on and off together with a shared passion for food.

Copia's authenticity is undeniable. The plants are upcycled, and the owners made the bar showcasing their hand-picked selection of New Zealand wine, craft beers and gin from wood they found lying around Sam's parent's place.

Their shared concept of simple sustainability represents a strong desire to work and eat with nature. And their influence is spreading. Copia's deliveries now come minus packaging after Ken and Sam kept returning plastic wrapping to their supplier. It’s a positive step forward for an industry that’s well known for producing large amounts of waste. As are the three well-utilised compost bins and the gorgeous greenhouse outback.

Catering to palates as well as ethics, Sam and Ken share a desire for organic growth, all with the kind of easy-going charm that Kiwis are known for.

And with a garden full of edible violas and bigger plans on the horizon, Copia's bound to bloom this summer.

W W W. C O P I A. N Z / 236 O R AK E I R D, R E M U E R A / 09 520 2234 FAC E B O O K. C O M / C O P I A. D I N I N G / I N S TAG R AM . C O M / C O P I AD I N I N G

FOOD & WINE

Celebrate with Bubbles Robust, richly flavoured whites and reds hit the spot in winter, but during the festive season and summer holidays, light, vivacious wines, appetisingly crisp and refreshing, are in high demand. Here are some top tips for sparkling and rosé wines — served gently chilled, of course — that will add a sense of fun and relaxation to your end-of-year celebrations and holiday get-togethers.

40

Fizz, bubbly, sparkling — whatever name you call it by, wine with bubbles in it is widely adored. The word 'champagne' should be reserved for the sparkling wines of that most famous of all wine regions, east of Paris.

Italy’s favourite fizz, prosecco, is grown in the country’s northeast, near Venice. Unlike champagne, prosecco is not given a secondary, bubble-creating fermentation in the bottle, leaving it with less complex flavours. But it’s also quicker and cheaper to produce, and is now attracting imitators in Australia.

Bubbles

Bollinger Special Cuvée NV Full of personality, this famous champagne (the real stuff) is a rich blend of pinot noir (60%), chardonnay (25%) and pinot meunier (15%). Disgorged after maturing for three years on its yeast lees and blended with reserve wines up to 15 years old, it is invitingly scented, with satisfying body and a strong surge of biscuity, complex flavours, appetisingly crisp, lively and long. $75-$120 Oyster Bay Sparkling Cuvée Rosé NV This non-vintage wine is blended from Hawke's Bay chardonnay and Marlborough pinot noir. Pale pink, it is lively, with strong, strawberryish, peachy, spicy flavours, gentle yeasty notes adding complexity, and a dryish finish. $22 Aimery Crémant de Limoux Grande Cuvée Brut Rosé NV 1/2 Bright pink, this blend of chardonnay, chenin blanc and pinot noir was grown in southern France and bottle-fermented. It is medium-bodied, with lively, strawberryish, slightly peachy and spicy flavours, yeasty notes, and excellent complexity and harmony. $26

Cloudy Bay Pelorus Vintage 2010 This classy Marlborough wine spent seven years maturing on its yeast lees. Highly fragrant, with intense, citrusy, peachy, biscuity characters, crisp and complex, it’s a real mouthful of flavour. $50

Deutz Marlborough Prestige Cuvée 2015 This outstanding wine is notably complex and tightknit, with searching, citrusy, yeasty, slightly peachy flavours that float across the palate to a crisp, lasting finish. $33

Lindauer Special Reserve Blanc de Blancs NV Looking for a bargain? The non-vintage wine I tasted recently was made from chardonnay grown in Gisborne. Very pale straw, with a yeasty fragrance, it is lively and lemony, with very good intensity and a finely balanced, dryish finish. $15

Vino Dell ‘Amicizia Prosecco NV Prosecco, Italy’s favourite fizz, made from the glera variety, is currently fashionable around the world. Very fresh and lively, this is a classic example, light-bodied (11% alc/vol), with crisp, citrusy, appley flavours, strong and vigorous. $27

V ERV E M AGA ZIN E .CO.N Z

Rosés

Vavasour Awatere Valley Marlborough Rosé 2019 This classy rosé is pink/pale red, with loads of youthful vigour and charm. It has fresh, strong strawberry, watermelon and spice flavours, with a dry, lasting finish. $23

Lawson’s Dry Hills Pink Pinot 2019 1/2 This characterful Marlborough rosé is brimful of flavour.

Bright pink, it has generous strawberry and watermelon flavours, slightly spicy notes, excellent vigour, and a dry, lingering finish. $25

Le Versant Pays d’Oc Grenache Rosé 2018 1/2 From Languedoc, in the South of France, this bright pink, attractively scented wine is lively and smooth, with good body and strong, ripe peach, apricot and spice flavours, fresh and dry. $23

Astrolabe Comelybank Vineyard Marlborough Pinot Rosé 2019 This classy wine is a blend of pinot noir (mostly) and pinot gris. Bright, light pink, it is a very fragrant and fleshy wine, with strong peach, strawberry and spice flavours, and a smooth, fully dry finish. $25 Taylors Adelaide Hills Pinot Noir Rosé 2018 Currently at its peak, this bright pink wine is vibrantly fruity, with good body, strong strawberry and spice flavours, appetising acidity and a dry, lively finish. $19 (Note: the wines are rated for quality out of a maximum of five stars.)

Michael Cooper is New Zealand’s most acclaimed wine writer, with 44 books and several major literary awards to his credit. This year he’s tasted over 2,500 wines in order to produce his annual wine guide — New Zealand Wines 2020: Michael Cooper’s Buyer’s Guide (Upstart Press, $39.99 RRP). Now in its 28th year, the book is firmly established as the most authoritative and sought-after guide to New Zealand wines. See michaelcooper.co.nz for more.

Words: Michael Cooper 41

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FOOD & WINE

Tantalise Your Tastebuds at 42

Madame Jojos WO R D S — J E N N A M O O R E

To all health-conscious, flavour loving foodies, if you haven’t discovered Madame Jojos in the Upland Road Village, you’re missing out.

Most food lovers have Madame Jojos on speed dial. It’s the destination that sits at the top of their lists when it comes to fresh, nutritious, heat and eat meals; a lunch pick-up complete with fantastic coffee or catering for people-overs and sit down restaurant quality dinners with none of the work.

THE FOOD Madame Jojos boasts a fridge stocked with staple take home meals like their famous smoked fish pie and cabinets filled with fresh salads and delectable culinary fare like spicy Indian carrot fritters with fruit chutney and coriander yoghurt, or a zesty energy slaw brimming with garden-fresh beetroot and carrot laced with pumpkin seeds.

FRESH, SEASONAL & MADE FROM SCRATCH “Our food is the real McCoy,” says Paris Bauer, who co-owns Madame Jojos with Jo Williams, the store’s namesake, and a team of six. “Everything is made in-house using seasonal ingredients with no preservatives and no enhancers. There’s no waste either, we’re sticklers for that. For example, any vegetable scraps go into the pot to make stock.”

IT’S ALL ABOUT FLAVOUR “For us, the benchmark is it has to be packed with flavour,” says Jo. “It’s got to be as good as what we would eat at home and we’re very particular,” adds Paris. Food is a passion for the pair who don’t hang up their aprons after hours but love to cook for themselves as much as their customers.

Also on offer are daily dinners, which change week to week. One night Vietnamese pork belly with rice noodles and pineapple relish is on the menu, another night it might be sweet and sour chicken with vegetable fried rice and bok choy.

Vegan and vegetarian choices are the menu, too. Today, Jojos vegan nut rolls are slightly spicy and bound using aquafaba (viscous chickpea water) with cauliflower rice and a saffron roast pepper sauce to compliment them.

M ADAM E J O J O S FO O D S T O R E 581 R E M U E R A R D, R E M U E R A / 0 9 52 3 554 5 / M ADAM E J O J O. C O. N Z

DEC 2019

“Everything is made in-house using seasonal ingredients with no preservatives and no enhancers. There’s no waste either, for example, any vegetable scraps go into the pot to make stock.”

THE HISTORY OF MADAME JOJOS

SPCA APPROVED HAM With Christmas on the horizon, Madame Jojos free-range SPCA approved glazed hams are in hot demand (delivery is free). “There’s a worldwide shortage of hams this year,” says Jo. CATERING They’ll also prepare finger food or dinners for your Christmas (or anytime) parties and ham banquets for people-overs.

“The platters come ready to roll — you can swap out the ham for a different protein like chicken, beef, or salmon, for example — and it’s accompanied by salads, breads, condiments, and separate sweet platters,” says Paris. “We serve what we would love to have access to ourselves; if you’re anything like us you’d rather enjoy a glass of wine with your friends than slave away in the kitchen for hours.”

Chef Jo studied her craft in Auckland, and after qualifying in the 1980s worked at establishments like the well-known Metropole in Parnell. She opened her first restaurant, First Floor Dining Room in Teed Street, Newmarket with her twin sister Sarah (also a chef) when they were only 25.

After an overseas stint, working with English chef Fergus Henderson (St John), and New Zealand chefs Margot Henderson and Peter Gordon, she returned home to start up Madame Jojos cooking classes from a warehouse in Kingsland. Spying the current Remuera Road shop 13 years ago, she nabbed it and Madame Jojos cooking classes became Madame Jojos Foodstore. “It had been a cake shop called 'Sugar' so it had an oven and a food cabinet but that was it,” says Jo. Paris joined the business after Madame Jojos opened in 2006 and they’ve never looked back, spending their days doing what they've mastered: cooking up a gastronomic storm!

And therein lies the magic, according to Madame Jojos fans. It’s the creativity, the passion and the flavours that many have tried to emulate, but few have succeeded.

Sign up to Madame Jojos newsletter to keep up to date with the weekly menu.

NB: $200 minimum spend for free delivery.

M ADAM E J O J O S FO O D S T O R E 581 R E M U E R A R D, R E M U E R A / 0 9 52 3 554 5 / M ADAM E J O J O. C O. N Z

43

Experience the magic of Matakana, stay at one of our luxurious new Plume Villas and enjoy the superb food and fine wine at Plume Restaurant. Country life starts here.

A one-hour scenic drive north of Auckland and 5 minutes from Matakana township you will find Plume Restaurant, an oasis for gourmet travellers in a coastal country setting. Recognised for its superb cuisine, and as the cellar door for Runner Duck Estate Vineyard’s fine wines, Plume Restaurant has gained quite a reputation.

Now, 12 new luxury Plume Villas, ranging from 1-3 bedrooms, have been added within the grounds. These all share a swimming pool and are within a relaxed stroll of the restaurant.

No matter the season or the length of your stay, you will find Plume Villas a comfortable place to base yourself while enjoying the many delights nearby, including the fabulous food and wine at Plume Restaurant.

Already boasting a private light-filled function room, Plume Restaurant has just become the perfect venue for weddings, conferences, meetings and private events set within a peaceful country location. www.theplumecollection.co.nz

37 Sharp Road, Matakana 09 422 7915 / 09 283 3630 SCL/PLU2018/12

49A Sharp Road, Matakana 09 422 7915

1335 Leigh Road, Matakana 09 423 0390

Cellar door, Plume Restaurant 09 422 7915

Orakei Bay Village is the place to be in Auckland this festive season.

With free parking, over 28 stores, eateries, and lifestlye vendors, plus events and entertainment, we are your one-stop shop for a fuss-free Christmas.

Join us this December for: Food Truck + Christmas Night Market Thursday 12 December 2019 4:30pm - 9:00pm Meet Santa in the Village Saturday 21st +Sunday 22nd December 2019 10am - 1pm

FOOD & WINE

CARE & CATERING Aussie culinary icon Maggie Beer is no stranger to success having released a range of acclaimed cookbooks; starred in MasterChef, and her own TV show, The Cook and The Chef; and been awarded honorary doctorates, Senior Australian of the Year, and Member of the Order of Australia, to name but a few. However, she ranks the Maggie Beer Foundation as among her proudest accomplishments.

Established in 2014, the aim of her eponymous organisation is to “improve the food experiences for older Australians, particularly those living within aged care homes”, through specialist training for chefs.

“Gosh, it’s just so important to me,” she says over the phone from across the ditch, “and it means so much that I’ve been able to bring in so many amazing people with amazing knowledge to help me. It can’t be done with one person. We’ve shown that we can make a change—but there is still a lot more to do.”

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“This all informs everything we do,” Maggie continues. “It’s a very complex set of circumstances. Our work is evaluated

by Flinders University to ensure all of the necessary ingredients are there. But of course, it’s also essential that there are great flavours that create joy, otherwise the food won’t get eaten!”

One of the things that has most thrilled Maggie throughout this journey is the excitement that the residents have shown, and their willingness to try new things—eviscerating the myth that the elderly can be fussy eaters.

Maggie was inspired to establish the foundation following her Senior Australian of the Year win, and visiting various aged care residences to give talks afterwards.

“There has just been such a positive response,” she says.

“Never underestimate the power of exciting people at any age. Who doesn’t like having things better?”

“People work so very hard in aged care, but not always with the support, budget or training that they need.” the chef laments. “You really do need specific skills for this industry, it’s not just about being a cook or a chef.”

Any favourite dishes?

Maggie worries that the older generation is a silent group of people that has for far too long been far too ignored, been forgotten. Thanks to their perseverance, the foundation now receives some government funding, and in February will also be filming online training courses to enable an even greater educational reach. I ask her if chefs in the industry too have felt frustrated by the historical lack of investment.

“Absolutely,” Maggie says. “It is very rare to come across anybody, in any industry, that doesn’t want to improve things. But they need assistance, they need to be better paid and to be afforded greater respect. They’re making huge differences for people in the later stages of their lives, and they should be celebrated for it.”

The foundation works with a whole team of experts such as dieticians and nutritionists who advise on the most vital minerals and vitamins for the older folk. They must also consider such things as medication and the loss of taste that comes with advancing age.

“The comfort food generally, you know, things like soup made from real chicken stock that’s full of real vegetables.

It’s full of protein and antioxidants. Dairy is important too, for the calcium.”

What’s more, feasting on quality meals encourages residents to sit down to eat and socialise together even more.

“When the chef gets the chance to have that immediate connection with the person that they’re cooking for, it gives them a greater sense of purpose and pride,” Maggie says.

“It’s really important because then it’s not just about a plate, it’s about a person.”

In this age, she says, there is no place for “institutionalised food”. The foundation has helped raise awareness, bring the issue to the attention of the wider public.

“Everyone understands now that we need to make changes,” says Maggie. “We need to use good people as benchmarks. Everyone deserves the chance to enjoy great food. To experience the pleasure of fresh, real ingredients.

But not everyone has the ability to cook, or even look after themselves. Everyone needs something to look forward to.”

Words — Jamie Christian Desplaces

DEC 2019

Avocado fritters

with kingfish sashimi and umeboshi

INGREDIENTS

METHOD

Avocado fritters 2 medium zucchinis, grated 1 large ripe avocado 1 tbs lemon juice 1 tbs lemon zest, finely grated 125g Persian fetta, crumbled 2 spring onions, finely chopped 2 large free range eggs ½ cup coriander leaves, picked and chopped ¼ cup self-raising flour salt flakes and freshly ground pepper, to taste extra virgin olive oil, for frying 300g sashimi-grade kingfish (Hiramasa)

Umeboshi 1. Remove the pits from the umeboshi and chop finely.

Umeboshi 110g umeboshi 4 tbs spring onions, green stems, finely sliced 1-2 tbs extra virgin olive oil vino cotto, to taste salt flakes, to taste to serve extra virgin olive oil micro coriander chives, finely sliced miniature radish, optional Serves: 6-8 Preparation time: 10 minutes Cooking time: 15 minutes Appliance/Function: Induction

2. In a mixing bowl, add umeboshi and enough olive oil to form a loose paste. Drizzle in vino cotto and season to taste. Fold through spring onion stems.

Fritters 1. Using your hands or a clean cloth, squeeze grated zucchini to remove as much liquid as possible. Discard the liquid and place zucchini into a large bowl.

2. Peel the avocado and smash with a fork, toss with a little lemon juice to stop oxidation.

3. Add the avocado to the zucchini along with the remaining ingredients, stir to combine. If the mixture is too wet, add a little extra flour.

4. Heat enough olive oil in a frying pan on medium to high heat, Induction setting 7. Place tablespoon dollops of mixture into the frying pan and fry gently on each side, 1-2 minutes until cooked through.

5. Remove from the pan and drain briefly on paper towel before cooling on a wire rack. Continue cooking with remaining batter.

Kingfish 1. Trim the fish of any skin and bone and remove bloodline. Using a sharp knife, slice across the fillet into medallions 1-2mm thick.

TO SERVE 1. Serve the fritters at room temperature topped with sliced kingfish, umeboshi and garnish with coriander, chives and drizzle with olive oil.

HINTS AND TIPS • Kingfish should be prepared as close to serving as possible and kept chilled.

• If your cooktop has the temp control zone, heat the frying pan on setting 1 to control the heat of the oil when frying the fritters.

• Umeboshi are fermented or pickled plums

made from young sour Japanese fruit which is a cross between an apricot and a plum. They can be found whole or as an umeboshi paste or in vinegar form. They can be purchased from Asian grocery stores.

A night out with

Kouzina Kouzina Appliances, together with Miele, recently hosted an exclusive evening to welcome the Australian food legend, Maggie Beer, to the Kouzina Parnell showroom.

Guests were treated to an unforgettable experience which included a gourmet tasting menu designed by Maggie, while they sipped on Seedlip cocktails to the sounds of a jazz trio.

Maggie, who has authored 10 books, appeared on popular TV shows such as The Cook and Chef, MasterChef Australia and The Great Australian Bake-off, and has been honoured as Senior Australian of the Year, shared her passion for cooking with seasonal produce.

The Menu Savoury CanapĂŠs Chawanmushi with umeboshi Individual parmesan tarts Avocado fritters with a topping of chives, lemon zest and garlic Hot Fork Dishes Red wine risotto with mascarpone, lemon zest and parsley Gnocchi with brown butter pine nuts and currants with Persian fetta, lemon zest and parsley Dessert CanapĂŠs Orange ricotta cake with verjuice caramel (GF) Chestnut panna cotta with chocolate vino

155 T H E S T R AN D, PAR N E L L 0 9 377 78 2 2

FOOD & WINE

LET’S EAT OUT

Platform 8 Restaurant With Dennis and Rosamund Knill

The Heritage Grand Central Railway Station is an unlikely venue to find some of the city’s best local produce where restaurateurs Dominic and Kitty are living up to the challenge flexing their culinary muscles.

Hidden inside the lobby of this magnificent piece of classic architecture of high ceilings, towering granite pillars and marble floors is one of the neighbourhood’s newest eateries. If it’s lunch or dinner be prepared to be teased with a menu that is designed to share with simple food that is contemporary and full of pure flavours 52

Comfortably seated the surprises come with their hard to resist salads: Caesar ($14), heirloom caprese ($15), grilled cauliflower ($18) and fish kokoda ($20). Moving on is an interesting selection of savoury dishes, beef brisket ($14), garlic prawns ($15), lamb croquettes ($15), meatballs ($15), chicken skewers ($16), grilled pork belly ($18), buffalo wings ($18), BBQ pork ribs ($24), cheese quesadilla ($18) and fish risotto ($26). Desserts include kumara and pumpkin Peruvian doughnuts ($9), cream caramel flan ($9) and cheeses ($14). And if a quiet drink at the bar is all that you require there’s small list of tantalising snacks ($9 to $14) with bottled and tap beers to help while away the hours.

We opted for meatballs, chicken skewers and lamb croquettes rounded off with fish risotto. The meatballs lifted with chipotle roast garlic sofrito sauce were skilfully cooked as the chicken skewers spiced with smoky romesco sauce and grilled asparagus. Equally enduring were lamb croquettes served with minted pea pesto and fish risotto with mushrooms and truffle oil. The pan fried terakihi was so fresh it was jumping off the plate.

The wine list is mainly from one winery so it has a way to go to do true justice to the wonderful food.

And the verdict? What a difference good staff make with free-thinking service making dining here satisfying. And for the price you get great food without sacrificing the credit card, a small detail but one that makes all the difference. In a city that hasn’t been kind to new start-ups hopefully this one will be a survivor.

MENU: 7.5 CUISINE: 8.5 WINE LIST: 6

SERVICE: 8 DÉCOR: 6.5 VALUE FOR MONEY: 8

P L AT FO R M 8 R E S TA U R AN T AN D B AR 26 T E TA O U C R E S C E N T, C I T Y / 0 9 972 1 8 48 / P L AT F O R M8 . C O. N Z L U N C H AN D D I N N E R: W E D N E S DAY T O S U N DAY

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GET

Christmas SORTED

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2 3

W

e all like to celebrate a little differently – whether it’s traditional, al fresco, or somewhere in-between. Some like to make things from scratch, others prefer to pick up easy-but-impressive cheats, and most of us do a bit of both. However you approach the festive season, you’ll find plenty of inspiration at your local Farro food store.

fabulous and tastes amazing. It’s perfect for feeding the extended family on Christmas day and the leftovers can be transformed into day-after deliciousness. Make your own signature glaze or choose from one of the readymade glazes on sale at Farro. All hams 4kg and over receive a free ham glaze.

3. CURIOUS CROPPERS CAPRESE

1. MISO GLAZED TURKEY

A classic Caprese is even better when made with local hero grower Curious Croppers’ heirloom tomatoes. Here, a pounded basil sauce adds a burst of freshness, and the addition of Te Mata Figs Fig Vincotto brings a luxury touch.

If turkey is the star player on your festive menu, make sure it’s free range for succulent meat and crisp golden skin. Tucking a savoury butter under the skin makes for a super flavoursome result,– try miso butter for an umami hit – or you can go the traditional route and fill the cavity with your own favorite stuffing recipe before trussing and roasting it to perfection.

For a super-easy option, Farro offers a whole bird pre-stuffed with our famous cranberry and orange stuffing.

4. CHRISTMAS TERRINE

Could there be anything better on a warm Christmas Day than a showstopper ice cream terrine that only requires a little chopping and slicing to put together? The slightly tart cherries look amazing in the ice cream, and make

for great eating too.

2. FREEDOM FARMS HAM

Find the recipes at farro.co.nz

A beautifully glazed baked ham looks

LUNN AVE

|

EPSOM

4

YOUR LOCAL FOOD STORE |

GREY LYNN

|

CONSTELLATION DRIVE

|

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MT EDEN

FarroTurkey Roast WITH SAGE AND PINE NUTS

A Farro pre-stuffed turkey roast makes Christmas day much easier! Adding a glaze to the top makes it that bit more special. Pine nuts and crisp sage leaves add a colourful and festive touch.

PRE-ORD

ER

your Christmas ham & turkey today at

farro.co.nz

FREE ISSUE | DECEM

Farro turke y

l0 mins prep

cook time serves: 6-8

¼ cup maple syrup 3 Tbsp soy sauce 1 Farro turkey roast* ¼ cup clarified butter ¼ cup pine nuts handful sage leaves Preheat the oven to 180°C. Combine the maple syrup and soy sauce and brush over the turkey roast. Cook for

roast with sage

page 6 nuts , pine and

1.5 hours

1½ hours, basting with the sauce every 30 mins. Bring out to rest in a warm spot for 20 mins before slicing.

Just before serving, melt the clarified butter in a small saucepan, add the pine nuts and cook, stirring, until golden. Remove pine nuts with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels. Add sage leaves to the saucepan, cook until crisp and drain on paper towels. Garnish the top of the sliced roast turkey with the sage leaves and pine nuts.

* Turkey Roast is frozen. Allow 2 days to defrost in fridge

BER 2019

Christmas

THE CLEVER GIFTER

masterclass

LOADS OF INSPIRATION FOR EDIBLE GIFTING

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Simple steps to bypa ss stress and nail the festive class ics OUR STOR ES

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FARRO FEAST pick up a copy in store now

FOOD & WINE

DAY A N D AG E

The Perfect Slice with Wusthof Knives The Wusthof Classic Ikon series combines perfect ergonomics, excellent balance and ultimately sharp blades with a timeless design. Before they are sharpened, each blade is measured using lasers by means of the PEtec procedure patented by Wusthof. This gives them the optimum cutting angle for the greatest possible initial sharpness.

Thanks to their special shaping, the knives are wellbalanced and their ergonomic handles make them super comfortable to hold. The handle shells are made from special synthetic material and are durably riveted, making them completely hygienic and easy to use. They are recommended for everyday effortless kitchen use by home cooks and professional chefs alike. If they’re the preferred knife of celebrity chef Gordon Ramsey, we're sure you will find them up to the job too! The Classic Ikon series, as well as a wide selection of knife ranges and accessories are all available at www.dayandage.co.nz

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www.dayandage.co.nz

Matcha Smoothie Dessert Strawberry Smoothie with Oreo

Create the look with Resene Black Rock

TO T HE M O ON & BAC K 58

A child’s room does not have to be elaborately or expensively decorated to be inspiring. Something as simple as an oversized map of the world, a ceiling filled with glow-in-the-dark star or dinosaur stickers or an XXL moon decal is enough to spark big dreams in little people. >> Don’t shy away from a darker palette in a child’s bedroom.

Particularly in the case of a smaller space, moody shades such as charcoal, inky blue and deep forest green will impart a cosy and restful atmosphere. >> Select shelving and storage that allows easy access for kids to their toys and books as well as affording them an opportunity to display favourite items.

IDE A

Throw something quirky into the decorative mix – an unusual light, a patterned or textured rug or unique sidetable (in this case a carved and painted tree stump).

KI D D I N G A RO U N D GR E AT IDE AS F O R CH IL DR EN’ S RO O M S A child’s room is a great chance to really play with colour and try out some design ideas you might not feel bold enough to attempt in your living room or kitchen. If you’re stuck for a place to start when it comes to choosing colours with your kids, have a look at the Resene KidzColour collection – a range of shades in every colour of the rainbow, with a few metallics for good measure.

E ASY TIGER Children love a place to belong, particularly in traditionally adult spaces such as the living room or study. By allocating them a corner of where the grown-ups hang out makes them feel valued and respected – not to mention allowing you creative license in introducing quirky, playful elements.

For more colour inspiration see your Resene ColorShop, resene.co.nz/colorshops

>> Create extra space for storage and the display of kids’ paraphernalia (as well as yours) by integrating shelves, surfaces and nooks into your architecture or use floating shelves, storage cubes and industrial lockers as quick-fix solutions in existing spaces. >> Baskets, cute storage containers and boxes are perfect for keeping small toys, stationery and playthings in check.

IDE A

Whimsical elements such as decorative (cruelty-free) trophy heads, cool art prints, oversized figurines and miniature furnishings will signify that this area is a kid-friendly zone.

Create the look with Resene White Thunder

WO RDS — M ANDY ALLEN / PRODUCT I O N — SV EN AL BER DI N G / PHOTO GR APHS — GR EG C OX

CHILDREN'S FEATURE

STORED & ORDERED

Make a design feature out of toys, figurines and books by leaving them on display. A great way to reflect the little occupant’s personality.

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IDE A Wall hooks keep any space tidy and make a feature out of cool peak caps, character masks and school backpacks.

>> Chunky floating shelves are well suited to a kid’s bedroom as well as small areas where floor space is at a premium.

Place the shelves slightly asymmetrically for a more playful appearance. >> Pay careful consideration to furniture in a child’s room – a lightweight, piece such as this hairpin leg desk looks

appealing to a child and has a contemporary character that will grow with them into the teenage years. A fun plastic-moulded chair adds a pop of colour. >> Clear storage boxes are invaluable in keeping playthings together and make the contents immediately identifiable to kids.

DEC 2019

S OCIA L CLIMB E R

Create the look with Resene Big Bang

A bunk bed is a win-win – kids love the idea of sleeping on one and parents benefit from the functional use of floor space and built-in storage. >> If you are having a bunk bed specially built, adapt the format by incorporating a built-in homework desk and book shelves. >> Don’t be afraid to steer away from a predictable kids’ colour palette. If you are opting for hues that integrate with the rest of your house, be sure to add pops of colour and graphic elements such as wall decals or posters.

IDEA

Clip-on task lights are a flexible choice for bunk beds, give kids a sense of security and will hopefully encourage lengthy reading sessions.

STATE O F TH E ART

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A gallery wall is creatively stimulating and engaging – the perfect finishing touch for a stylish kid’s habitat. >> The ideal gallery-wall can include framed prints, pretty plates and ceramics, decorative tiles, lettering and symbols, eco-friendly trophy heads, fairy lights or battery-operated marquee lights as well as postcards stuck up with washi tape. >> On a budget? Scour the internet for free-to-use printable imagery as well as vintage advertising or graphic, contemporary and classical works of art that would suit a child’s room that is in the public domain. >> For a contemporary mood, keep the configuration unstructured. Before hanging up anything permanently, however, place the various pieces on the floor or mark out their shapes on the wall in pencil to be sure that the final result looks visually balanced. Pay particular attention to the spaces in between the artworks.

IDE A Don’t shy away from more grown-up fabrics and striking patterns in a child’s room – the floral print and black background of this upholstered bed, for example, adds a touch of sophistication and will not need to be replaced in later years. The dark fabric also acts to visually anchor the otherwise light-filled, pastel hued space.

>> Toe-to-toe beds will enhance a sense of comfort as well as independence.

SE E I NG DO U BL E

>> A low-level bed is safe for kids and easy to climb in and out of.

These beds have been raised slightly off the floor on utilitarian bases made from sanded and varnished builders' palettes. As well as preserving the life of mattresses, putting the beds on palettes gives the room a more finished, thoughtthrough appearance. >> A two-tone wall featuring a minimalist mural in a calming pastel tone adds character, while polka dot wall decals brings the fun and sparkle.

Whether your kids share a bedroom out of choice or necessity it usually translates to double the clutter so aim to keep things inviting, pared-down and practical without feeling austere.

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Create the look with Resene Gelato

B O O K NOOK Take inspiration from children’s library displays and include front-facing shelves – ready made or bespoke – in your child’s bedroom or play area. This is an especially sensible choice for young readers who rely on visuals rather than words to seek out their favourite books. The bonus is you can make a decorative feature of attractive book covers. >> Here, simple floating shelves have been made from upcycled wooden planks. Leave them white or paint in bright shades for a pop of stimulating colour. >> Encourage their reading habits by establishing a cosy corner for kids to lounge around. Denim-covered foam mattresses make for inviting floor cushions that are also hard-wearing enough for rough-and-tumble play or can be moved outside onto the grass for a spot of peaceful cloud gazing.

IDEA

Wooden spice racks are a clever and cheap substitute for floating shelves. Give them a coat of paint before mounting on the wall. We love IKEA’s BEKVÄM

>> Plain mix-and-match bedding that plays with the colour blocking trend looks super modern. Layer for interest with patterned scatter cushions and wall prints.

IDE A Children love being on the floor – whether it’s to roll around, do handstands, stretch out and read or set out their playthings. Always try and leave them enough floor space to do so.

SWE E T DREAMS Let’s be honest, kids will be kids and that means the customary ‘but I’m not tired’ grumble. An inviting bed should help even the odds in your favour... most of the time at least.

>> Child-friendly doesn’t have to mean childish. In this space, the bohemian bedding and simple daybed-inspired configuration will remain timeless as the child grows, eliminating the need (and expense) of continuous redecorating. >> Changing the look as kids mature is easy to do with accessories such as scatter cushions, lamps and cheapand-cheerful art. >> Storage baskets are infinitely useful and stylish – you can never have enough be they for toys, shoes, a chic laundry basket or to keep craft materials such as wool or knitting needles. >> An area rug next to a bed is soft underfoot and adds a sense of layering to a space. Rugs are also perfect for introducing pattern, colour or shape.

IDEA

Create the look with Resene Half Copyrite

A rustic ceiling-hung structure made from latte poles and linen transforms a bed into a magical den. Don’t forget the fairy lights (battery-operated is always best for a child’s room).

Kid’s Bedroom Design Competition Attention aspiring young designers If you have a child aged between 5–12 years who is just bursting with creativity, then Verve magazine wants to put their design skills to the test! Verve’s Bedroom Design Competition is asking youngsters to get creative and draw us a picture of what their dream bedroom looks like.

Encourage your young ones to be as imaginative as they’d like! What do they want to see in their bedroom – a chocolate fountain? A race car bed? A pet tiger? Whatever it is, get them to draw us a picture and then take a photo or scan the image. Email entries along with your child’s name and age to sales@vervemagazine.co.nz There are some awesome prizes to be won - so kids don’t miss out! Put down those screens and bust out the crayons these Christmas holidays!

Prizes up for grabs

Under The Sea Print A3*

by Maiko Nagao from Shut The Front Door

Rock-it board rockitnz.com

Hoopla by Nood

Double Shaggy Skin by Wilson and Dorset

Blong the Cat’s Costume Caper by Karen McMillan

$300 Resene Paint Voucher

Entries close 20 January 2020. Prize winners to be announced in Verve’s February 2020 issue.

V ERV E M AGA ZIN E .CO.N Z

*Unframed

64

DEC 2019

THE TWEEN BRAND THAT’S STYLISHLY PRACTICAL

Specially made for tween girls, Talula is a fun collection of classic styles with edgy details.

Age-appropriate and cleverly designed to fit and flatter changing shapes, everything is adjustable or easy-fit.

Because our mission is to help girls of every size and shape feel happy and confident in what they wear, we offer custom sizes too.

MADE IN NEW ZEALAND WORN WITH CONFIDENCE WWW.TALULA.CO.NZ

Strictly limited edition. Ethical clothing. Made here.

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VISIT US IN OUR NEW STORE!

Dimples is the place to shop for all things baby

FREE parking right outside

25 Kent St, Newmarket 09 523 4161 dimples.co.nz

@dimplesbabywear

BORN FROM NATURE, MADE WITH LOVE

DEC 2019

Teaching by Experience “Learning outside the classroom is still incredibly important,” says educator Alwyn Poole, “and the Bay of Islands represents the heart of New Zealand’s first contact and establishment as a bi-cultural nation. Every young Kiwi should have the opportunity to experience it.”

With that in mind, Alwyn, along with wife Karen, have founded Bay Light, a Bay of Islands-based exploration centre designed mainly for school camps but also available for the likes of corporate events, church groups, weddings and other celebrations. The couple are no strangers to such educational projects, having already established Innovative Education Consultants, as well as the Villa Education Trust, which operates three Auckland middle schools.

“The trust has always aimed to provide remarkable experiences and learning for a core group of young people,” says Alwyn, “while the consultancy company allows us to do things that are little bit different—activities that are more adventurous than what’s usually offered by schools. We are also the sole New Zealand licensee for the online language platform Rosetta Stone, because we believe every child should learn at least two languages.”

Bay Light aims to further inspire kids to learn more about the history and geography of their nation by means of its spectacular setting and access to significant cultural sites.

Five purpose-built chalets just outside Russell can house 1060 students, usually for a period of up to a week.

“You can learn theoretically inside the classroom, or you can head to the beautiful Bay of Islands, and stay in a place that overlooks the highest point, with mind-boggling scenery,” says Alwyn. “You can head across to the Waitangi Grounds, visit Pompallier House, tour the islands by boat catching sight of dolphins, rays and orca, and visit New Zealand’s oldest archaeological site. Such experiences will stick with the kids for life.”

Further activities include museum trips, bush walks, fishing, kayaking and mountain biking. I ask Alwyn if he’s concerned that this generation of kids doesn’t get outside enough.

“We’ve taken children from the Villa Education Trust up to Russell for the last 18 years. When the first group of 30 students from South Auckland Middle School went to the Bay of Islands, 22 of them of them had never even been across the Auckland Harbour Bridge, so it’s really important for them, and if we can get the teachers and parents to tag along, it really enhances the wonderful experience.”

The centre, which took nearly two years to plan, opened just a few months ago and has even already received a booking from a school in Hawaii. They’re also in the process of building a state-of-the-art night sky viewing platform replete with high-end binoculars and telescopes and webcam that allows it to be accessed from anywhere in the world.

“Another thing we’re excited about developing is a 60seat amphitheatre that means you can watch movies with Bluetooth headphones without upsetting the neighbours!” says Alwyn. “We see it as a legacy opportunity, to put something in place which at least 40 schools a year can experience.”

The project is partnered with Explore Group for the boat tours, and Omata Estate for “semi-formal dinner”. “Then what we’ve done with the local community is sourced at least 10 activities like beach swimming, the Waitangi bike park, and fish and chip night. So, a school group can say that they’re going to be here for four or five nights, and this is what we want to do in the morning in terms of learning, and these are the activities that we wish to do later.”

For the trust, Alwyn has even managed to snag some revered sporting personalities as patrons, such as “New Zealand’s greatest living athlete, Peter Snell”, winner of three Olympic golds.

“Yesterday we toured our schools with triathlete Ryan Sissons who has already competed in a two Olympic Games,” says Alwyn. “He was born in Zimbabwe and came here as a 12-year-old, and, as a trust we sponsor him to bring aspiration into our community. He’s in his 30s now, still going, and certainly hasn’t got rich from it but has a nice story to tell. Similarly, former NRL player Paul Whatuira, who grew up in one of Wellington’s toughest suburbs, comes in and speaks really well to the kids.”

Another aspect of their mission is to encourage young New Zealanders, especially women, from lower income families to pursue sports scholarships at American universities via a programme called USA Aspiration. Through Innovative Education Consultants, Alwyn and his team are advocating for student loans to be extended to US study to “make the brilliant US system accessible to low socio-economic families and bring about similar changes that the Villa Education Trust has brought to younger students”. Sir Peter Snell and Miki Snell, among others, are endorsing the project.

“Kids don’t necessarily remember the day to day things that they formally learnt in school,” says Alwyn. “But they do remember the stories that a remarkable teacher may have told. They do remember experiences. So, I believe that it’s particularly important to get expose children to as much outdoor environment-based experience as possible.”

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CHILDREN'S FEATURE

Kids, Holidays, Technology and the Future I jumped at the chance to meet with Damon Kahi, national technologist at The Mind Lab at the Museum of Transport and Technology (MOTAT). Our conversation was going to deliver some decisive answers and hopefully dismiss those scary rumours around the damage technology is having on the youth of today.

We settled down amidst screens, keyboards, cameras, and robotic limbs. Our agenda was set, we were ready to tackle it all: kids, holidays, technology, and the future.

As a mother of three primary-aged children, I’d arrived for our chat eager to be ‘let off the hook’. Screen-time was going to be officially ‘A-OK’, no more nagging or clock-watching required, the future is digital after all and my kids would need to embrace this virtual world or risk being left behind.

Log on kids, off you go – just be home in time for dinner!

Thankfully, for all concerned, my foolish fantasy was quickly dispelled, and I’m excited (and relieved) to say that, for my children and every other family with Wi-Fi, the digital future looks set to be much more inspiring thanks to the experts at The Mind Lab. The Mind Lab team appear to have settled well into their purpose-built creative space within MOTAT, it seems like a perfect alignment with the museum’s eclectic mix of past, present and future experiences.

Already respected for delivering award-winning programmes for school groups, The Mind Lab at MOTAT’s School Holiday Workshops have now started to attract equal attention from parents and educators alike.

“Each of our sessions is focuses on a category of skill sets, for example robotics, animation, or perhaps 3D design,” explains Damon.

“From there our EdTech Educators educators develop a lesson theme based around a real-world problem, something that has particular resonance with our young participants. In the past we’ve applied 3D design skills to building prototype machines that can remove plastic pollution from the ocean or we’ve channelled graphic design skills into building websites that will inform our communities about recycling and sustainability issues.

"Along the way we’ve learnt that kids are quick to pick up the skills required, getting to grips with the tools and the tech side of things is not a problem. However, what really kick starts their enthusiasm is realising they can apply these skills to solve real-life ‘grown up’ problems.

"It’s an empowering realisation, they get a massive confidence boost and we can see, when children come back to do other workshops, that this confidence boost has a lasting impact on how they approach learning going forward. Our EdTech Educators educators guide

DEC 2019

the sessions with framework, context and, skills and by the end of the day the children leave with a full sense of achievement and a clear understanding of why technology exists and how to use it to get where they want to go in the future.”

The beauty of working with young people in this way is watching them use their imaginations to full effect. Kids don’t tend to be as burdened with experience, or obsessed over the need to be right, or hamstrung by preconceived ideas like adults.

"When it comes to thinking outside the box they just really go for it, and then blow you away even further by communicating their ideas in simple, eloquent and reasoned ways.”

The Mind Lab at MOTAT have some of New Zealand’s most respected educators in the areas of science, technology, engineering and mathematics. Their awardwinning brand of teaching will help push your child’s creative and tech-based skill set far beyond anything a traditional school environment can offer.

If you’re looking to give your youngsters a digital holiday this Christmas, a nag-free chance to plug in and tune out for a day then The Mind Lab at MOTAT is not for you.

But, if you’re looking to give your youngsters a head start on their future, if you want them to experience the empowerment that comes from matching their creativity with cutting edge skills, then The Mind Lab at MOTAT School Holiday Workshops should definitely be on your family wish list this Christmas.

The Mind Lab at MOTAT School Holiday Workshop Programme will run workshops throughout the Summer holidays. Each full-day workshop covers two different skill-set categories. Visit motat.org.nz/mindlab for the full school holiday workshop schedule and to book.

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BOOK NOW motat.org.nz/mindlab

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1. Luca Lion from Freedom Furniture | 2. Jardin | 3. Mt Gold Quarto Shaggy Skin from Wilson & Dorset | 4. Hairy Sloth from Nood | 5. Activity Play Mat from Dimples | 6. Stacking cubes from Dimples | 7. Alpaca rocker from Nood | 8.

Jelly Cats from Dimples | 9. Shaggy Cushions from Wilson & Dorset | 10. Shaggy Bag short wool dublin bay from Wilson & Dorset | 11. Clothes from Talulah Tween Wear | 12. Stoke Teepee from Nood | 13. Wooden Toys from Trade Aid | 14.

Wooden Toys from Trade Aid | 15. Luca Lion from Freedom Furniture

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Make Your Xmas Magical F R E E S H I P P I N G U N T I L 25 D E C

T H E FA I RY L I G H TS H O P. C O M

// 32 D B A R RYS P T R D , TA K A P U N A

CHILDREN'S FEATURE

Spark Your Child’s Curiosity Takapuna is home to a first of its kind boutique, sustainable urban school that's ready to revolutionise education.

Age School is for families and students who are passionate about wellbeing for people and for the planet. Our small nurturing environment and high teacher to student ratio means we get to know each student deeply and personalise learning so that it is meaningful for them.

If you walked into a dentist’s office and saw it set up how things worked 50 years ago, you would turn and walk out.

Yet in education, this is how things still are. Minus a few colourful desks, most classrooms still operate the same way as when our parents went to school.

"Large schools need to cater to the needs of the many and although they can tweak programs for some students they just don’t have the flexibility to truly contextualise learning for each individual student like we are able to at Age School," says Age School’s principal, Steve Mouldey.

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Age School has been inspired by international education innovators and thought leaders who have paved the way and proven future ready education models that focus beyond the academic, to an individual’s purpose, wellbeing and agility to thrive in the future. Combining the best of New Zealand’s approach to education with the latest thinking from these international education innovators, their learning model is designed to let your child embrace who they truly are, not what traditional education thinks they should be.

To spark children’s curiosity teachers turn their interests into real-world challenges, and encourage deep thinking to allow students to build both their knowledge and their social and emotional skills. With much of their students time spent outside the school within the local community and natural environment, a passion for real-world learning is a very real part of student life.

In 2020, Age School will move into their new purposedesigned building which will allow the school to grow to around 150 students.

T O O R G AN I S E A P E R S O N AL V I S I T, P L E A S E E M AI L I N FO @AG E. S C H O O L. N Z O R P H O N E 09 2 18 7 7 7 1

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Auckland Obstetric Centre is a unique practice in Parnell made up of six leading specialist obstetricians and support staff. Together we have many years of experience and feel privileged to be able to share in the care of women during their pregnancy. To find out more about how we can care for you and your baby call our team or visit our website.

09 367 1200 | obstetrics.co.nz

Lynda Batcheler Astrid Budden Eva Hochstein Katherine McKenzie Kirstie Peake Jason Waugh

Seaside Social Text: Justine Hewitt Photographs: Warren Heath

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HOME & DESIGN

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DEC 2019

Bring the notion of beach life to your own space with a palette of bleached natural tones and textures pepped up with characterful pieces from farflung shores.

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Left: Take inspiration from the kaleidoscope of magnificent muted colours you find at the shoreline with a table dressed in a harmonious mix of plates and vessels inspired by nature. Floor cushions in sisal keep it casual while succulents and plants gathered from the windswept dunes add pops of visual interest.

Right: In any decorative scheme, it’s the objects that catch the eye that give it character. Every piece of African basketry comes with an emotive provenance, its value lying not only in the vibrant colours and patterns but also the artistic expression and hand of its maker.

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HOME & DESIGN

78 Left: Want to easily evoke a feeling of beach shack chic? You need an understated statement chair, one that begs to be plopped down in to. Stop things from becoming too rustic by bringing in on-trend brass or copper elements like this pared down table — a perfect partner for a whimsical collection of found and decorative items. Here, the combination of unvarnished cane, weathered wooden cladding, cement floors and woven textiles is absolutely arresting and delightful in its lack of pretence.

Right: Beach life – it’s all about following the path of the sun, enjoying the soundtrack of the waves and celebrating that carefree summer feeling. What better way to fulfil that sun-dusted holiday mood than by devoting a quiet corner to chill-out time?

How? Soft, tactile textures, a muted monochromatic palette, layers of throws and blankets for when the heat of the day passes or eyes grow droopy and plenty of scatter cushions in corresponding colours of course!

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DEC 2019

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HOME & DESIGN

Ignite the pizza chef inside you with Ooni pizza ovens. Available in gas powered or real wood burning options you can get that delicious, restaurant style, real wood fired flavour right in your own backyard or even when you’re on the go. www.outdoorconcepts.co.nz

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15-31 WELLESLEY ST, AUCKL AND • 0800 994 930 • DELUXINTERIORS.CO.NZ

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100% OUTDOOR FURNITURE | LIGHTING | TEXTILES MADE IN FRANCE

AVAILABLE FROM 3 VEGA PLACE, ROSEDALE | 09 889 1200 | WWW.JARDIN.CO.NZ

HOME & DESIGN

The French Villa A passion for beautiful interiors inspired by the classic styles of the Hamptons and French country led Ruth Shannon to open her beautiful new store in Milford.

WO R D S — J E N N A M O O R E

Ruth, together with her daughter Madison, has designed a stunning space and furnished it with covetable, high-quality pieces that give a feeling of stepping into a sumptuous home. “That’s how I want it to feel,” says Ruth.

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The Frustrated Architect

“People tend to congregate here, it’s a little bit like inviting someone into your own villa.”

A former nurse, Ruth describes herself as a ‘frustrated architect’ and it’s her love of bungalows and villas with a nod to the style of the Hamptons, Normandy and the east coast of the United States that turned up a fruitless search for the elegant, solidly-made, timeless furniture she was seeking for the new build.

An Eye For Design

Travel Inspiration

Ruth has project managed several residential developments with her husband Ross and the couple have renovated several of their own homes. Together they restored 465 Mt Eden Road, an historical 1882 villa, back to its former glory as 22 offices and a café (Altar). Their latest project is a brand new Hamptons home being built on a cliff on the North Shore.

“Ross and I travel a lot, most years we go to Europe, and we’ve spent a lot of time in the United States and Australia,” says Ruth. “We lived in Newport Beach for a few months as well and I wanted to emulate some of the looks I’d seen on my travels, but there was nothing like that here. I found it difficult to find black and white furniture too, they’re colours that don’t date, but they’re difficult to find at a moderate price. I know why: it’s not easy, there are high barriers to entry and it’s expensive.”

Filling The Gap

Ruth felt the gap in the market so strongly that she began to work on her long-held dream of The French Villa. A business that provided the styles of France, the Hamptons, Nantucket, Cape Cod, plantation, the Bahamas, and the Riviera.

Mother & Daughter Team

Meanwhile, Madison was working full-time in a marketing role but helped Ruth out part-time. Somewhat fortuitously her job was made redundant which enabled her to join Ruth in the business. “She’s my right-hand girl,” says Ruth.

“We work well together,” says Madison. “We have our moments, but Mum’s the creative and I’m into creating order, so it works.”

T H E F R E N C H V I L L A: S H O P M 13 5, M I L FO R D S H O P P I N G C E N T R E: 24 M I L FO R D R D, M I L FO R D / 09 213 2814 / T H E F R E N C H V I L L A. C O. N Z

Covetable Style

Ruth and Madison have sourced a plethora of beautiful French country, coastal and plantation-style furniture and homewares that tantalise the senses. Plush striped couches sit side by side with sleek white display cabinets. There’s a tempting display of gorgeous coffee table books on offer along with cushions, throws, vases, jars, pots, and planters.

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Scouring The World

“Our Riviera and Provincial ranges are designed in Normandy and made in Vietnam,” says Ruth. “That company also supplies 30 shops in France as well as globally. We’ve also designed our own exclusive range and are working with a supplier in China. They are a family owned and operated factory so we enjoy working with them - they supply some stockists in France and Scandinavia as well.”

“Creating an air of elegance with quality product is important to us. We have a range of 100 percent handloomed cotton cushions and we take out the polyester inners and replace them with feathers so they’re beautiful to sink into like the couches,” says Madison. “Our aim is to make it achievable to create a complete and timeless look throughout the home with well-made furniture and homewares that aren’t too highly priced.”

Ruth and Madison have been delighted with the positive feedback they’ve received already about their new store from the local community. “I love the fact that people love The French Villa. Even the men come in and say it has a lovely feel. There is something for everyone,” says Ruth.

T H E F R E N C H V I L L A: S H O P M 13 5, M I L FO R D S H O P P I N G C E N T R E: 24 M I L FO R D R D, M I L FO R D / 09 213 2814 / T H E F R E N C H V I L L A. C O. N Z

HOME & DESIGN

VIBE CHECKS 1 2

1. Wells Cushion Missoni

2. Whittier Cushion Missoni

3. Concord Summer Recliner May Time

Yarn-dyed chevron/stripe pattern, in a colour fade cross the weft. The beauty of this fabric is the width of its colour repeat and the delicate lace effect of the chevron banding. Featuring self-fringing as a luxurious detail.

Heavyweight, yarn-dyed Tartan realised in an Epingle velvet structure. This brilliant jacquard Tartan is as visually rich as it is textual, drawing on autumnal warm tones to complement the soft handle of this perfect nestling cushion.

An elegant and refined outdoor seating option, perfect by the pool, in the garden, or on the deck. The elongated lines of this chair set it aside from its peers. Each piece is handmade using environmentally sustainable materials.

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DEC 2019 5. Timmy Throw Missoni

Instantly refresh a room with this eye-catching Timmy throw from Missoni Home. Made from luxuriously soft ultra fine 100% merino wool, the throw is adorned with an iconic Missoni jacquard weave of striated chevron design and a fringed edge.

Perfect for layering over bed linen or positioning over the arm of a sofa for colder evenings.

6. Nanao Brass Candle Nousaku

This brass candle holder is made using traditional casting technique which has been passed down through generations for over 400 years in Takaoka, Japan. Produced in collaboration of Nousaku and Takazawa Candle of Ishikawa Prefecture.

7. Outline Wall Mirror Joska & Sons

A simple round wall mirror framed with a subtle band of polished brass. Available in three sizes.

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7. Sen Brass Vase Takuya Nishimoto

Takuya Nishimoto’s beautiful range ’Sen’ places focus on the timeless character of brass. His collection is intended to age, softly tarnishing and oxidising over time, which he compliments with ageless minimal forms.

8. Wind Bell Nousaku

This wind bell is manufactured using traditional casting techniques which has been passed down through generations for over 400 years in Takaoka, Toyama Prefecture. It offers the fineness of material and clear ringing sound. To accentuate the beauty of material, each object one at a time.

9. Bendeble Tin Plate Nousaku

Invented by Nousaku, this unique bendable tin plate is outcome of accumulated experience and skilled craftsmanship. Though it depends on the shape and thickness, pure tin is soft and flexible which can be bent by hand.

WORDS: MYA COLE

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FURNITURE DESIGN STORE

36 Pollen Street, Ponsonby 09 930 6268 | jihome.nz

Mon – Fri 9am – 5:30pm Sat 10am – 3:30pm or by appointment Free car parking in the basement

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UNIQUE & BEAUTIFUL GIFT IDEAS FOR CHRISTMAS Turkish kilims, rugs, runners, cushions, poufs, totes, handbags & more!

Visit our showroom by appointment at 53 Wood St, Freemans Bay, Auckland.

021 211 8904 | mkelly@xtra.co.nz marykellykilims.co.nz

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P R O F I L E

F U R N I T U R E

I T ' S L I K E A C L O UD NZ made f u r n itur e w i th 4 w eek d eli v er y.

Lo o s e c over s an d u p h o lster y o p ti o n s a v a i la b le.

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1. Lyon Sofa. 2. Cie Chair. 3. Belgian Sofa. 4. Fulham Sofa. 5. Asti Chair. 6. Urban Sofa.

C ON TAC T U S FOR Y O UR N E A R E S T S TO CK I S T O R VISIT O U R S H OW ROOM AT 6 9 C S T G E O R G E S B AY R D , PA R N E LL W W W. P ROF I LE F UR N I T UR E . CO . N Z 09 827 3617 • IN F O @P R O F I LE F UR N I TUR E . CO . N Z

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HOME & DESIGN

Perfectly Balanced

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The design of a kitchen can make or break a house, especially when it’s at the centre of the home. Not only is it visible from multiple rooms – so it has to look good – but it also holds the key to the efficiency of the circulation in the house, which means it has to work well, too.

The skill of a good kitchen designer is in bringing these two key elements of aesthetics and functionality together in a way that works well for the space in which the kitchen sits and, most importantly, resonates with the homeowners’ taste and family situation.

During their journey to find a new kitchen for their modern home the owners of this kitchen came across Kitchens By Design in a local magazine. They liked what they saw and decided to pay a visit to their Takapuna showroom, where they met one of the firm’s in-house designer, Marianne Gailer.

“They knew what they liked and didn’t like; they just needed someone to bring their ideas together and guide them and help them find a solution,” says Marianne. “Their existing kitchen island was wide and short, with an up-stand, which not only looked old fashioned, but also made the walkthrough very tight and wasn’t really proportioned to the shape of the room.”

Marianne’s new concept introduced a longer slimmer island that allowed for a lot better circulation. She also brought into play the informal dining space at the end of the room by incorporating matching cabinetry along the back wall. Her design brought together the whole room into one cohesive

space, and also gave her clients a lot more usable storage than they had with their original kitchen.

“With colour and materials, it always starts with the benchtop with me; everything else then falls into shape, either contrasting or complementing with darker or lighter cabinetry colours,” says Marianne. “With this kitchen we chose a rich, veined porcelain material and continued the darker theme by selecting a matching cabinetry colour. As a contrast, the colour of the cabinetry at the dining end of the space, which we also designed, was matched to the wall colour, to help it blend in.”

Among the list of space-saving and technical solutions the designer introduced is a downdraft extractor, mounted behind the cooktop on the benchtop, which is a lot more efficient than the overhead variety. Next to it, there’s an onbench pull-out pantry, plus an all-in-one tap on the kitchen island that provides boiling and filtered drinking water as well as your normal hot and cold water. There’s also a handy pop-up power point on the benchtop for small appliances.

Choosing all these gadgets is one thing, bringing them all together is quite another, and that’s where the team at Kitchens By Design excel. “Because we were brought in right at the beginning and oversaw all the work, we were able to plan everything well ahead with all the subcontractors, making the whole process very efficient,” says Marianne. “As a team, we go the extra mile to make sure that our clients are satisfied with the final product – and in this case they absolutely love their new kitchen.”

KITC H E N SBY D E SIG N .CO.N Z

Visit one of our showrooms today.

Newmarket 7 Melrose Street, Newmarket (09) 379 3084 Takapuna 3 Byron Avenue, Takapuna (09) 488 7201

Aesthetics meet functionality in this modern kitchen.

kitchensbydesign.co.nz

HOME & DESIGN

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AMAZING KITCHEN FACELIFTS

Amazing Kitchen Facelifts Dream Doors helps you create a beautiful new kitchen, replacing cabinets, benchtops, doors and drawers as you require. Our Amazing Kitchen Facelifts process will ensure value, high quality and minimal disruption. Give us a call or enquire via email to arrange a Free in-home consultation.

09 533 6956 aucklandce@dreamdoors.co.nz DreamDoors.co.nz

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Peace of mind starts with being able to talk with an advisor who is across the premium central locations of Parnell and Remuera, to Herne Bay and St Marys Bay. Whether you are planning to sell, or buy into a new lifestyle, call me today to discuss the best options and way forward.

For sale: 39 Bassett Road, Remuera

For sale: 30 Vine Street, Saint Marys Bay

PENE MILNE + 64 21 919 940 • pene.milne@nzsir.com nzsothebysrealty.com Each Franchise is Independently Owned and Operated. Browns Real Estate Limited (licensed under the REAA 2008) MREINZ.

Summer LIVING Jardin

Jardin is the New Zealand partner for French outdoor brand Fermob. Our Auckland showroom is on the North Shore and has over 100 products on display so you can try out the different chairs and experiment with table sizes and seating options. Visit us and experience the quality, craftsmanship and joie de vivre of the Fermob collections! 3 Vega Pl, Rosedale / Jardin.co.nz

Corso Di Fiori

Curate your world. From the eminently practical through to pieces of astonishing craftsmanship, Corso Di Fiori source unique objects of both beauty and usefulness from around the world – like the two gorgeous pieces pictured here. corso.co.nz Gin & Tonic rattan armchair, $834.80

Rattan butlers tray, $290

The Ribambelle extending outdoor table from Fermob offers the versatility of multiple extensions allowing you to select the size that's right for you. Jardin - Fermob Partner NZ

Island Gin

Island Gin, Great Barrier Island. Organic juniper, mānuka & bush honey, in a kīnainspired recycled glass bottle.

Atmosfar

Atmosfär offers a range of timeless, Nordicdesigned lifestyle products guaranteed to deliver a sophisticated and contemporary finish to your home or wardrobe. atmosfar.co.nz

Cesena Light Dusty Turquoise Cushion 40x40, $104

TheLand's End Trivet, of solid brass, is produced by the over400-year-old Swedish company Skultuna, $149

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Delux Interiors

This art deco-style living room from Delux Interiors impresses with its luxury and sophistication. deluxinteriors.co.nz

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Celebrate your Christmas with JI Home. Great gifts and accessories. jihome.nz / 36 Pollen St, Ponsonby

JI Home

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Les Jardins Aix En Provence, Amaka Outdoor Extension Table 200-300cm

Poynters

We’re proud to stock leading designer outdoor furniture brands Cane-line, Devon, Life Outdoor, Talenti and many more. poynters.co.nz

Point, Block aged teak outdoor table 240x100 Original or Drift finish Les Jardins Aix En Provence, Skaal teak outdoor teak low arm chair by Les Jardins

Genuine New Zealand and Australian made sheepskin footwear and possum merino knitwear.

34 Barrys Point Road, Takapuna / thesheepskinfactory.co.nz

The Sheepskin Factory

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HOME & DESIGN

Karakter

10 Melrose St, Newmarket +64 9 550 8749 +64 21 057 4912

Georg Thams leather cantilever chair & DCW Mantis lamp

Nils Johnson for Troeds, Swedish teak sideboard

Alfred Cox six-drawer console

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HOM EWARES | DRI ED FLOR ALS | ST YLI NG

386 P T CH EVALI ER ROAD, P T CH EVALI ER , AUCKL AN D. I N FO@ORNAM ENT.CO.NZ | I NSTAG R AM: ORNAM ENT.NZ

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DEC 2018

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V E RV E M AGA ZIN E .CO.N Z 7-9 Earle Street, Parnell | 09 281 3191 | frobisherauckland.co.nz

HOME & DESIGN

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'Tis The Gifting Season V ERV E M AGA ZIN E .CO.N Z

DEC 2019

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1. Downlights Silver Pine Candle / 2. Downlights Mini Diamonds Candles / 3. Downlights Soy Melt Burner Square in French Vanilla / 4. Tuberose Pod Diffuser from Neom Organics London / 5. Tuberose Doll Vase from Seletti / 6. Tuberose Monkey Lamp from Seletti / 7. Isabel Harris Palm Tree beach bag $140, isabelharris.co.nz / 8. Isabel Harris Fragonard Peony body lotion $59.95, isabelharris.co.nz / 9. Isabel Harris Sohum White Cedar Mini Candle $24.95, isabelharris.co.nz / 10. Retreat Christmas Nutcracker / 11. Retreat Christmas Minikin / 12. Retreat Battery operated snow globe / 13. Trade Aid Mug / 14. Tuberose Face Planters from Jones and Co / 15. The Good Pet Store, MiaCara Tondo Cat Bowl Powder / 16. The Studio, Christofle Mood Party Tray & Dishes – an entertainers dream $2,033 www.thestudio.co.nz / 17. The Studio, Riedel Fatto A Mano Curly Decanter $499 www.thestudio.co.nz / 18. The Studio, Sambonet Flat PVD Black 30 Piece Cutlery Set $1,290 www.thestudio.co.nz / 19. The Bay Tree over size Champagne Bucket $349 / 20. The Bay Tree Statue of Liberty $69 / 21. The Bay Tree Geneva lantern medium $85 / 22. Day & Age Wusthof Urban Farmer Collection – from $108.00 www.dayandage.co.nz / 23. Day & Age Zone Denmark Dishwashing Set by Zone Denmark $105.00 www.dayandage.co.nz / 24. Day & Age 24 Bottles Tivoli and Prosecco - Clima by 24Bottles hot for 12hours cold for 24hours $69.00 www.dayandage.co.nz

Roskilde is a charming, eclectic store in the heart of Upland Road shops Visit us in store to see our collection of silk and pashmina scarves, exquisite jewellery, leather handbags, hides, candles, homeware and many more one-of-a kind collectibles.

OW! E ON N 019 L A S N TIO R2 RELOCA 22 DECEMBE GO! Y IS LAST DA YTHING MUST EVER 09 478 16 14 • 02 2 070 1060 • 6 16 REMUERA RD, REMUERA V E RV E M AGA ZIN E .CO.N Z

CHRISTMAS COLLECTION

TAKAPUNA // 09 4 89 2 20 9 SILVIA PAR K // 09 52 5 6 89 1

Get inspired with gifts to delight and Christmas decorations to adorn.

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0 9 52 4 5 890 • RE TRE ATNZ.CO. NZ RIALTO CE NTRE : 163 BROA DWAY, NE W MA RKE T V ERV E M AGA ZIN E .CO.N Z

TRAD EAID.O RG.NZ

HOME & DESIGN

B E AU T I F U L G I F T S FOR CHRISTMAS

62 A B E N S O N R D, R E M U E RA O P E N 7 DAYS · 09 522 2991 · T H E BAY T R E E .C O. N Z

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1. Decorative Flower Bowl from Ornament 2. The Christmas table according to Coralla Maiuri. Coralla Maiuri tableware and Bottega d’Arte vases, decorative Wall Plates: Atlantis, Cell, Landscape and Planet.

3. Fornasetti Bocca Tray from design55.co.nz 4. Glo Table Lamp from artemest.com 5. Citta, Layers Glass Vase - Amber, Medium from Paper Plane Store 6. Fornasetti Gold Leaf Plate #9 from design55.co.nz 7. Tuscan Two Handled Jug from Ornament 8. Fornasetti L’abbra Candle from design55.co.nz 9. 88 Secrets Bar Blush Rose Cabinet by Nika Zupanc from scarletsplendour.com 10. Broste Ceramic Vases from Ornament 11. StoneLab Design Sottosopra Black from artemest.com 12. Copenhagen Tan Leather Folded Stool from Ornament

DEC 2019

TUBEROSE

O p e n 7 d ays in De ce mb e r 2 Wal ton St , Remuera tuberose.co.nz • 09 520 5635 sh op@ tuberose.co.nz • 103

Think tableware . . . think The Studio of Tableware

Quality tableware & Christmas goodies to set a stunning festive table - great gifts for everyone on your gift list!

For the best selection of dinnerware, glassware, kitchen tools and cookware, gifts and NZ’s largest range of quality stainless & silver cutlery Dedication to service, combined with fantastic parking right outside the door, makes The Studio of Tableware New Zealand’s easiest and most enjoyable shopping experience

New Zealand’s leading tableware specialist since 1981

www.thestudio.co.nz

5 Harold Street, Mt Eden, Auckland ph 09 638 8082 open 7 days Mon - Fri 9.30 - 5.00 Sat & Sun 10.00 - 4.00

great parking right outside the door!

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the studio

OF TABLEWARE

Wonderful House Tour A unique Waiheke event Picture a majestic summer’s day, the sea like glass and the ferry skimming across the waters of the Hauraki Gulf heading to Waiheke Island.

Each year in March a select group of the island’s unique properties primp and preen themselves to throw open their doors to the public. This highly anticipated event, in its sixth year – has become much loved in Waiheke Island’s calendar and is always a sell-out.

Homes are spread from Oneroa to Onetangi – be it a cute, quirky batch or a contemporary home with stunning views, the Wonderful Waiheke House Tour is a fun and fabulous day out. This year a limited number of Waiheke Artisan bags will be on sale offering delicious tastes from the island’s artisanal foodies and a great memory of the day.

Some homes will have local architects and designers present. Local designer Irene Crean has a love, flair and passion for gorgeous interiors and will be present to chat about styling secrets.

The Waiheke Community Art Gallery is the organiser of this event which has a dedicated group of followers and has become one of the island’s most popular outings.

“Everyone really enjoys this unique day of art and architecture on Waiheke Island against the stunning backdrop of coastal views or fabulous gardens. Each home has a distinct location, personality and vibe so its

a great event for both visitors and locals alike” says gallery Director Linda Chalmers.

Opt for a self-drive, or small buses are provided by Fullers and Waiheke Executive Transport. Join the festivities of the day with a boxed lunch in a garden party environment at one of the stunning homes, or choose the vineyard lunch option.

This event is the gallery’s primary fundraiser, enabling the continuation of its lively exhibition programme and other cultural events through out the year. “Although the gallery attracts more than 60,000 visitors annually, it receives very little institutional funding”.

“We couldn’t do without the generosity and support of our home owners who agree to open their beautiful houses for the day” says Linda Chalmers. Central to the event are key sponsors Fullers360, Waiheke Executive Transport and Waiheke Living along with a dedicated group of volunteers.

Other generous sponsors include Be My Guest Waiheke and Waiheke Island Wine Tours.

The 2020 event will be held on Wednesday 18th March 2020 and is expected to be another sell-out. Dont miss out on this fabulous event! Buy your tickets here: www. waihekeartgallery.org.nz

18 M AR C H 2 02 0, B O O K AT WAI H E K E AR T G AL L E RY. O R G . N Z

WONDERFUL WAIHEKE HOUSE TOUR WEDNESDAY 18 MARCH 2020

PRESENTED BY NZ SOTHEBY’S INTERNATIONAL REALTY

A fabulous day out on Waiheke Island!

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From cute and quirky to stunning architect-designed homes, there is inspiration around every corner.

This annual event is always a sell-out and has become a much-loved event on the island’s calendar.

Tickets from $95 - $190 per person

HIGHWIC CHRISTMAS SHOP

Save the date and come on over!

OPEN NOW UNTIL 29 DECEMBER, 10.30AM-4.30PM Brimming with decorations, vintage inspired toys and other gifts, including candles and stationery.

We also have a wide variety of stocking fillers!

Buy your tickets from here www.waihekeartgallery.org.nz

Why unravel in shopping mall crowds when you can be charmed by a Christmas wonderland of hand-picked gifts?

MORTIMER PASS, NEWMARKET HIGHWIC@HERITAGE.ORG.NZ 09 524 5729 · HIGHWIC.CO.NZ

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HOME & DESIGN

SUMMER 2020

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JOURNEYS

Zodiak Management The hands-free solution to Airbnb WO R D S - J E N N A M O O R E

Zodiak offers management of properties for investors who offer short-stay accommodation via Airbnb and Booking.com.

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When Stefan Nikolic and his brother George decided to rent their one-bedroom investment apartment to travellers they were delighted with the high returns. “We had an 85 percent occupancy rate and the return is double that of long-term renting,” says Stefan. However, with both men working full-time the management presented a headache.

LATE ARRIVALS “We had some guests who were booked in for a 9pm-10pm arrival but their flight was delayed, and then it was delayed again, so they weren’t able to check-in until about 3am,” says Stefan. “That’s the type of thing that can happen so we looked for a management company who could help. There were a few but they charged extra for essential services like cleaning which didn’t prove cost-effective.”

A LARGE TASKLIST With a multitude of tasks involved in the undertaking including listing a property, communicating with potential guests, welcoming them on arrival, organising cleaning and linen, re-stocking amenities and maintaining the calendar, Stefan realised there was scope for a team of people to take care of it all.

ZODIAK MANAGEMENT He founded Zodiak Management to provide an affordable solution and in two years of operation, it’s become Auckland’s premium management choice.

Airbnb launched in New Zealand approximately five years ago but it’s only in the last two to three years that it’s taken flight with investors taking advantage of high occupancy rates and good returns.

HANDS-FREE SOLUTIONS Providing hands-free solutions for owners is Stefan’s goal and his team are passionate about their work and providing a quality service to both guests and owners.

Zodiak doesn’t only list an apartment on Airbnb but

also on Booking.com, TripAdvisor, Expedia, HomeAway, VRBO, Agoda and their direct booking website to give vacancies maximum exposure.

THE HUMAN ELEMENT “We have our own check-in/check-out staff who travel via 50cc scooters to get around the CBD to welcome guests and a team of cleaners who go through a stringent interview process,” says Stefan. “They then check the apartment to ensure everything is clean and tidy after guests leave to ensure the property is ready for the next booking. A lot of management companies offer a lockbox approach where guests check themselves in but we’ve retained the human element. We have a human being people can phone if they need to and guests appreciate that. We work a little like a hotel.”

Security is an important issue too so Zodiak checks all guest IDs and builds relationships with building managers to tick the security and health and safety boxes. “We also like to work with our owners to improve systems wherever we can,” says Stefan.

SUPERHOST STATUS It’s dedication like this that’s seen Zodiak Management achieve SuperHost status on Airbnb due to receiving over 85 percent five-star reviews. They’re also part of Booking. com's Partner Program, which works in a similar way to Airbnb’s SuperHost status.

"We rank high on Google, too, and a US company listed our blog as one of the top 100 short-term and vacation rental blogs in the world," says Stefan. "We're proud of the service we offer. It's a fairly new industry, but it's less 'wild west that is was, and becoming more structured. In many ways, we're learning as we go."

And with 65 apartments now on their books and a growing list of accolades it’s apparent that Zodiak Management and Stefan are on the right track.

Z O D I AK. C O. N Z / S T E FAN@ Z O D I AK. C O. N Z / 0800 115 973

WHAT TO LOOK FOR IN A MANAGEMENT COMPANY 1. Good communication.

2. Reliable work.

3. Good reviews online.

4. SuperHost status.

Overseas Retirees I would sooner be a foreigner in Spain than in most countries.

How easy it is to make friends in Spain! George Orwell

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Laid back and laden with renowned architecture that straddles millennia, cultures and religions, not to mention the fine wines, sophisticated eating, endless summers and Mediterranean-kissed coastlines, it’s little wonder that Spain has long been considered the ultimate retirement village.

“The Spanish lifestyle is very easy going,” says British-born Glyn Herbert, who retired to the Spanish island of Mallorca with her late husband, Andy, 16 years ago. “It’s full of fiestas throughout the year, and everyone—young and old—comes out to celebrate them to the full; something we have lost a bit, I think, in the UK.” A recent report by US News placed Spain fifth globally for a comfortable retirement—down from fourth in 2018— describing it as “highly connected to the rest of the world” and “one of the most culturally accessible countries” (New Zealand topped their poll, by the way); while Spain came top of a 2019 study by wealth manager Blacktower Financial Management of 45 European nations, labelling it “the perfect destination for anyone looking to relax in their ‘golden years’”. International Living magazine names Mallorca as the second-best island in the world for retirees, thanks to a coastline “ringed with marinas and harbor and natural rock-lined coves offering privacy” coupled with “hilltop castles in the mountainous countryside”.

According to a special report by the Office for National Statistics and Institiute Nacional de Estadistica, between 2008-2017, the number of over-65 Brits living in Spain more than doubled to 121,000 accounting for more than 40% of the nearly 300,000 UK citizens there.

Glyn and Andy, who passed away eight years ago, moved to the Spanish island from the UK having previously also lived in Switzerland for the best part of a decade.

“We had been coming to Mallorca on holiday for several years, so when my husband retired, we sold our home and bought a place here. My husband especially liked adventure and wanted a project to keep him amused.”

Andy, says Glyn, was the project manager of their house build, and the couple lived onsite throughout the process. “It took a while to get planning permission so the first year was like an extended holiday,” she continues. “It was challenging at times, with plenty of brick dust! But the Spanish builders were great and became our friends.”

Glyn, a keen hiker and practitioner of yoga and pilates, says it’s easy to keep busy and make great friends as an expat, and is still pals with people she met for coffee on their first day 16 years ago. “It’s a very caring community,” she adds.

“The support I had from my friends when I lost my husband kept me going. Everyone comes together if ever anyone needs any help.”

Glyn and Andy met in a pub in England, “fell in love and married a year later”. “He was my best friend and soul mate,” she says. “I miss him every moment of the day.”

Following in their parents’ footsteps, the couple’s two grownup children also live overseas, their daughter married to an Australian and living in San Francisco; while their son and his German partner live with their young son in Switzerland, so “a good mix of different cultures!”

“My wonderful grandson was born in Switzerland, is only six years old and already speaks three languages,” beams Glyn. “I am very proud of him and he loves to visit me here in Mallorca.”

Being away from her family, she reveals, is the hardest thing about living overseas.

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DEC 2019

Retirement Hotspots from Around the World The Annual Global Retirement Index named Panama as the most desirable retirement destination for 2019, citing a sunny climate, low taxes and it being “tucked out of the way of the hurricane belt”. Other wellplaced nations include Thailand, Peru, Spain and its neighbour, Portugal.

Andy and Glyn celebrating his 60th birthday.

“You do miss that spontaneous popping in and out when you live near each other,” Glyn says. “But I am very happy for them enjoying their lives in other countries and all of the interesting experiences that brings.”

Glyn doesn’t make the trip back to the UK very often, and though she loves being back there is always “happy to return to peaceful Mallorca for the simple life”. Christmas time, she adds, is especially sentimental “when you remember the festive atmosphere in London and the shops buzzing with the build-up”.

“But the positive is when family do visit here over the holiday, we all enjoy a very relaxed, low-key Christmas in the sunshine. Christmas morning begins with Cava on the beach before heading off to a good restaurant for lunch with family and friends. So, none of the stress of a huge food shop and lots of busy traffic!”

Portugal—or more specifically, it’s Algarve region— topped this year’s Live and Invest Overseas retirement hotspot list thanks to its “safety, terrific year-round weather (3,000 hours of sunshine annually) and areas where you can get by on English alone”. Portugal’s living costs are also the lowest in Western Europe.

According to financial technology company SmartAsset, Germany is Europe’s finest retirement spot (“gorgeous architecture, impeccable infrastructure and a first-rate healthcare system”); while Costa Rica is the best place to retire for a low cost of living while offering incredible weather, beautiful beaches and “among the highest living standards in Central America”.

Combing data from the Global Peace Index with the midyear 2019 cost of living index by Numbeo.com, CNBC concluded the “Central European gem” of the Czech Republic is the ideal retirement destination, brim-full of “world-class beer, polka music and hearty home cooking”, and boasting European Union standards at Eastern European price points. Other top 10 entries include Austria, Slovenia, Iceland, Japan, and New Zealand.

Words — Jamie Christian Desplaces

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DICTATORS, DESPOTS & DISSIDENTS 4-24 JUN 2020

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YOUR HOME AWAY FROM HOME APARTMENT HOTELS

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Spacious, modern apartments ideal for the business and leisure traveller to Auckland. Offering: • The choice of studios, one, two, or three-bedroom apartments, all tastefully furnished with wellequipped kitchens and laundries.

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Newmarket is a very popular location with cafés, shopping, cinemas and the Newmarket business area all on its doorstep. Please check out our website: questnewmarket.co.nz

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Quest Parnell located in the historical suburb of Parnell, offers studios, oneand two-bedroom (two-bathroom) self-contained apartments.

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Quest Carlaw Park Spacious modern apartments for business or leisure.

Studio, one-bedroom and luxury two-bedroom (two-bathroom) penthouse apartments available. All with well-equipped kitchens and laundries.

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DEC 2019

Ethiopia WO R D S — C H R I S LYO N S, D I R E C T O R, WO R L D J O U R N E Y S

Nothing quite prepares you for Ethiopia, amongst the most extraordinary and amazing of the 170-plus countries I have visited. Breathtaking beauty, ancient history, rich culture, and the sheer diversity of people are a traveller’s dream, all set against a backdrop of rugged mountains, dramatic deserts and lush countryside. It was here the first humans roamed, and as Ethiopia is the only country in Africa never colonised, the lack of outside influence allows a rare insight into an old and original Africa. Today, the rich tribal culture and strong Coptic Christian beliefs offer an amazing contrast.

Ethiopia is home to some of the most traditional tribes in Africa.

The challenges of persistent drought mean some are making the transition from a nomadic life to a more settled lifestyle, but others live much as they have for centuries. The Mursi of the remote but beautiful Omo Valley are best known for the startling clay plates in their lips that women start wearing from their late teens, marking traditional rites of passage.

A somewhat confronting look, but just one indication of the remarkable depth and resilience of those traditions.

On my recent trip whilst in the Omo Valley, we learnt that the Hamer tribes-people were going to hold a ‘bull running’ initiation ceremony. This is when a young man, aged about 15 years, must run naked across the back of bulls, proving his eligibility to marry. During the event, the women of the village dance and chant — a real ‘National Geographic’ moment! We were also lucky to witness the annual Meskel Festival in Addis Ababa, with huge crowds celebrating this

UNFORGETTABLE ETHIOPIA

Orthodox Christian holiday with feasting, a magnificent parade and ceremonial bonfires.

Christianity emerged in Ethiopia centuries ago, but really took a foothold when it was declared a state religion in 330 AD. I was amazed at how devout the 65 million Ethiopian Christians were, and any visit to Ethiopia must include Lalibela, the site of impressive 12th-century churches hewn out of solid rock by hand. To go right back to biblical times, visit Axum, home of the Our Lady Mary of Zion church, believed to have housed the Ark of the Covenant. Word is, the neighbouring Chapel of the Tablet contains the Ark today. Relatively more recent history has left a legacy of impressive castle ruins in Gondar, capital of the Ethiopian Empire in the 1700s.

Add to all that history stunning natural beauty including the lunar-like salt pans of the Dallol Depression, 120 metres below sea level and from where camel caravans carry blocks of salt all over northeast Africa. The Simien Mountains — a vast cauldron of deep gorges, towering peaks, and fascinating wildlife found nowhere else on earth were a delight — especially the chance to walk amongst and witness the interaction of a 500-strong troop of the placid gelada (‘bleeding heart’) baboons.

World Journeys are running a small group hosted journey to 'Unforgettable Ethiopia' in September 2020, with a maximum of 18 guests, and a host to ‘smooth the way’. Go to worldjourneys.co.nz for details.

SMALL GROUP HOSTED JOURNEY With breathtaking natural beauty, ancient imperial history and rich cultures, Ethiopia is an Africa of old.

Meet rural tribes, discover impressive castles and rockhewn churches and witness the unique Meskel festival.

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departing 9 SEPTEMBER 2020

T 09 360 7311 www.worldjourneys.co.nz /worldjourneys

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So, What Is Jet Lag? According to the World Health Organization, jet lag is the result of “the disruption of the body’s ‘internal clock’” caused by crossing multiple time zones, with possible symptoms including an upset stomach, insomnia, general malaise and “reduced physical and mental performance”. Difficult as it is to sleep on an aeroplane, it is not this that causes jet lag, but rather, says Dr Alon Avidan, director of the UCLA Sleep Disorders Center, the “misalignment of our circadian rhythm” resulting in our body clock to become “disorientated and confused”.

Even if you are one of those lucky few who are able to catch some Zs on a plane it won’t guarantee a jet lag-free arrival for it’s when you snooze, rather than for how long, that is most important to countering the condition.

Counting Clouds Words — Jamie Christian Desplaces

Living in this isolated paradise tucked beneath the bottom of the globe brings with it an abundance of perks. It also means that trips abroad are often accompanied by a good dose of jet lag, a condition that can be draining to the point of debilitation, devastatingly robbing you of quality holiday time or, perhaps less dramatic, productive office hours upon your return. However, few issues rival jet lag when viewed through the first-world-problems prism, and, for obvious reasons, it’s not something that generally elicits much sympathy.

Tempting as it is, neither is it wise to take advantage of the complimentary booze to try to beat inflight insomnia— alcohol, especially at altitude, causes dehydration, and even disrupts sleep. “I know the answer is no alcohol,” veteran flight attendant and author of Cruising Altitude, Heather Poole, tells USA Today. “… the best thing you can do is drink water, tons of water. Hydration is the key to looking good and feeling good…” Though, she does admit a glass of wine does “help to take the edge off and ease the pain of travel”.

Fooling Flying As well as shunning alcohol, the World Health Organization advises sticking to light meals and resetting your internal clock with some “well-timed exposure to daylight”. Upon arrival, travellers must seek out morning sun when heading east, but stay indoors in the morning then making the most of the afternoon and evening light when flying west. Certain prescription or over-thecounter medications may help reduce insomnia, indirectly facilitating recovery—so long as you plan your sleep at the right time.

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DEC 2019 “The night is the hardest time to be alive and 4am knows all my secrets” – Poppy Z Brite

Another trick is to gradually adjust your eating and sleeping patterns in the days leading up to your flight, tricking that inner clock in preparation for its new time zone. Advisor-to-the-astronauts, Erin E Flynn Evans, of Nasa, recommends those heading east should get up early for several days prior to flying, and turn on bright lights; while those west-bound would do well to stay up late, getting their daylight fix as late as possible.

If it all sounds more effort than it’s worth, it may be worth noting that a study published in Sleep Medicine Clinics found that recurring jet lag in frequent flyers may pose all manner of long-term health risks like cardiovascular disease, type II diabetes and even cancer, while another study in the American Academy of Sleep Medicine found that the symptoms only get worse with age.

Step Forward, Tech Though that jet lag-curing pill remains as elusive as the hangover one, in true 21st-century style, an app called ‘Timeshifter’ may be on the verge of blasting it into oblivion.

“The problems caused by jet lag cannot be tackled using generic advice, which is over simplistic and can be counterproductive, making jet lag worse,” says Steven Lockley PhD, an associate professor at Harvard Medical School, who helped develop the app. “Each traveller and trip is different and requires a personalised approach.”

Timeshifter is not the first jet lag app, but it is the most advanced, endorsed by the likes of retired spaceman Michael López-Alegria (“When I was an active astronaut at Nasa, I used the same science-based circadian algorithm as Timeshifter is deploying. I can’t recommend Timeshifter enough”); Formula One champion Nico Rosberg (“Getting jet lag advise revolutionised my life”); and Under Armour performance coach and sport scientist, Michael Watts (“Timeshifter is a solution we use with elite athletes to accelerate recovery and reduce the effects of jet lag and give them a competitive edge”).

The app, available from the App Store and Google Play, generates personalised plans based on the likes of the user’s usual sleep pattern and chronotype (whether they’re a morning person or a night owl) and flight times, then incorporates a “practicality” filter to ensure “advice is realistic and easy to follow”. The notification system will tell you when to sleep, when to seek light, and when to avoid it. It even advises when to ingest—and resist— caffeine. Options allow for a timetable that begins up to three days before the flight, while the Quick Turnaround feature is aimed at business travellers looking to be at their best during shorter trips that don’t allow for a full adjustment.

Company CEO Mickey Beyer-Clausen hails Timeshifter as a “paradigm shift in jet lag solutions”, perfectly encapsulating “how mobile devices will improve our lives in unexpected ways”: “We are thrilled to finally put an end to all the jet lag myths and misinformation out there, and instead offer an effective tool that truly addresses the underlying cause of jet lag."

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West vs East: Which Way’s Worse?

Jet lag generally intensifies when crossing four or more time zones (jet lag does not occur when flying within the same time zone north to south, or vice versa— that’s just regular travel tiredness), and though it’s long been accepted that flying east causes more severe effects than westward trips, for a long time noone was quite sure why.

A study published in the journal Chaos concluded it’s because the cycle of our circadian rhythm—that internal clock—usually runs a little longer than 24 hours, and when heading west we follow the sun, gaining extra daylight hours which our body finds it easier to adjust to. Flying east—against the sun— means a shorter day, which throws us more out of sync, worsening the symptoms of jet lag.

The researchers found that crossing three time zones eastward may take up to four days to recover from, reducing to three days or less when flying the same distance west. Only when the full 12 time zones are crossed in either direction do the recovery times match up—taking around 10 days.

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JOURNEYS

Weird Real Estate

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This year marked the 50th anniversary of Apollo 11 landing on the Moon and Neil Armstrong muttering that crackling, historic sentence about a small step for man and a giant leap for mankind (an utterance, incidentally, that may have been inspired by the “not a great leap for a man, but a leap in the dark line” line from The Hobbit—Armstrong was a big Tolkien fan). A plaque reading “We came in peace for all mankind” was left on the lunar surface, but, more famously, the US flag was also inserted into the dusty ground—an act that historically symbolises an ownership claim over a newfound, or conquered, land. Which begs the question, ‘Who the hell actually owns the Moon?’ And who even decides such things, anyway?

Guardians Of The Galaxy

Following the launch of the first artificial satellite, Sputnik,

by Russia in 1957—beginning the space age—the UN convened to form a special space committee. In 1967, nations such as the US, UK and Soviet Union signed the Outer Space Treaty which stated: “Outer space, including the Moon and other celestial bodies, is not subject to national appropriation by claim of sovereignty, by means of use or occupation, or by any other means.”

But that was by no means the end of the matter.

It has long been suspected that the Moon is rich in natural resources, including water, precious metals like gold and platinum, as well as rare earth metals vital for our electronic devices. And we’re ever closer to developing the technology to mine them.

In 1979, another UN treaty called the Agreement Governing the Activities of States on the Moon and Other Celestial Bodies (or, the ‘Moon Agreement’) specified such heavenly destinations must be used only for peaceful purposes, with the UN to be informed of any planned exploration of any kind. Though the agreement was ratified by the likes of France and India, absent signatures include those of Russia, China and the US. Besides, many agree that such international cosmic contracts would be difficult to enforce.

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DEC 2019 Guardians Of The Globe The oceans cover more than 70 percent of the ocean, hiding all sorts of hidden treasures such as fish, oil and possibly precious metals.

In 2015, the US passed the Commercial Space Launch Competitiveness Act that recognises its citizens’ ownership of any resources mined from asteroids, a treaty that, say experts, could be extended to include the Moon; while two years later, Luxembourg passed a similar bill that, said its deputy prime minister, Etienne Schneider, would propel the country to become “a European pioneer and leader in this sector”.

China plans to establish a research base there having landed the Chang’e-4 probe on the far side of the Moon at the beginning of 2019 and germinating a cotton seed on its surface, and Japanese company iSpace has announced its goal of “achieving the world’s first commercial lunar exploration program”, the orb being a “vehicle for companies on Earth to access new business opportunities”.

Helen Ntabeni, a lawyer at Naledi Space Law and Policy worries about the implications of such actions, telling the BBC that regardless of whether or not the materials would return to Earth, mining the Moon “is the very opposite of not doing any harm”, adding that she’s “quite sceptical that the moral notions of the world exploring space together as equal nations will be preserved”.

Even though it too is covered by the Outer Space Treaty, similar questions have been raised concerning the recent race to populate Mars—Nasa plans to send astronauts to the red planet in the 2030s, while SpaceX, for example, may well be in a position to send humans there even sooner. Thomas Zurbuchen, associate administrator for Nasa’s Science Mission Directorate, says that our excitement at the possibility that “many different players are able to contemplate missions of both commercial and scientific interest to bodies in our solar system” must be tempered by “thoughtful and practical policies” that not only enable discovery, but “preserve the integrity of the planet and the places we’re visiting”.

The oceans cover more than 70 percent of the ocean, hiding all sorts of hidden treasures such as fish, oil and possibly precious metals. The Unesco Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission sets out to promote international cooperation in terms of ocean exploration, a similar philosophy to the Outer Space Treaty. But according to the US National Atmospheric Administration, less than 20 percent of the seabed has been observed or explored, and, as with Mars, there is a race to get there first. Every coastal nation has sovereign rights over their exclusive economic zone (EEZ), a 200 nautical mile (370-kilometre) region that reaches out from their shoreline; but the 1982 United Nations Convention of the Law of the Sea, through the Commission on the Limits of the Continental Shelf (CLCS), allowed for the possibility of stretching that zone if a country can prove its continental shelf stretches beyond that boundary.

The Arctic seafloor is (unfortunately) bulging with fossil fuels so it’s little wonder a handful of nations are looking to stake their claim on the icy paradise. To the chagrin of Russia and Denmark, earlier this year Canada submitted a sovereignty claim over a large section of the region, including the pole, to the CLCS. With a depressing dose of irony, the massive oil reserves are becoming more accessible as the polar ice retreats. Mapping done by the three countries looking to claim the pole has also revealed several previously unfound sunken mountains, further proof of just how little we know of our underwater world.

In the early 19th century, the UK was the first to make any kind of claim to Antarctica when ships landed, and flags were planted in the ice. The inhospitable climate meant colonisation was clearly out of the question, but over the following century or so various other governments including France and the Nazis made land claims. In 1959, 12 countries with a history of sending scientists and researchers—including Argentina, the US, Britain, Russia, Chile and New Zealand—signed the Antarctic Treaty, awarding each of them certain sections of the landmass while recognising “that it is in the interest of all mankind that Antarctica shall continue forever to be used exclusively for peaceful purposes and shall not become the scene or object of international discord”. A sizeable no man’s land remains the largest unclaimed area on Earth.

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Festive

Cult Gia

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Pieces

Karen Walker / Elevation Dress

Karen Walker / Aurora Dress

Merlette Muse

Matteau / Cropped Cocoon & Gathered Skirt

DEC 2019

Christopher Esber

Karen Walker / Altitude Dress

Yu Mei / Luci Bag 121

Celine / Round Sunglasses

Merlette Muse

FASHION

Karen Walker / Runaway Girl Earrings

Merlette Muse

Harris Tapper / Rib Dress

Celine / Rectangular-Framed Sunglasses

Staud / Pearl Grace Bag

Staud / Shirley Mini Leather Tote Bag Harris Tapper Celine / Cat Eye Sunglasses

Yu Mei / Vi Bag

Yu Mei / Ch'lita Bag

Kowtow / Riley Dress Daisy Check

Kowtow / Ada Long Slip Dress

Wynn Hamlyn / Panel Dress Check

Matteau / The Cowl Dress

Wynn Hamlyn / Dinner Shirt

Wynn Hamlyn / Scarf Blazer

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Maggie Marilyn / 01 Blazer

Cult Gia

FASHION

Painted Bird

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Recycle Boutique

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伀戀椀

V ERV E M AGA ZIN E .CO.N Z

伀戀椀 䌀栀漀挀漀氀愀琀 吀爀愀瘀攀氀氀攀爀猀

Make it a December to remember

8 Station Square, 240A Broadway, Newmarket

GIVING YOU MORE TIME TO SHOP Milford’s giving you more time to shop this festive season.

We are open until 7.30pm every night.

Tuesday 17th to Monday 23rd December.

Individual store hours may vary.

MOOCHI Top $299.99 SPORTSCRAFT Shirt $129.99

WITCHERY Earrings $59.95 THE FRENCH VILLA Console Table $899.00

STORM Top $189.00

ECCO Wedge $299.00

VIEW OUR CHRISTMAS GIFT GUIDE online at milfordcentre.co.nz

Prices may be subject to change. Limited stock may apply to selected items.

HAVE YOUR CHANCE TO

UNWRAP A GIFT EVERY NIGHT AT MILFORD Between 5pm – 7pm from Tuesday 17th to Sunday 22nd December Head down to Milford Centre for your chance to unwrap: A $1,000 Milford Centre gift card each night An $899 coffee table from the French Villa A $649 handbag from ECCO Shoes A $399.99 leather tote from Moochi A $500 Blue Illusion voucher 2 x $300 Flo & Frankie wardrobes An $800 Elizabeth Arden beauty collection from Life Pharmacy A $1,000 original artwork by Debbie Morgan from MorArt Plus over 500 gifts worth more than $22,000

SANTA’S WONDERLAND Come and visit Santa at his enchanted wonderland.

MILFORD SHOPPING CENTRE Gift Card available online and at the Customer Service Kiosk

Open 12pm to 5pm, from Saturday 30th November to Tuesday 24th December. * Christmas stocking is to take home and decorate.

Milford Shopping Centre, 24 Milford Road, Milford, Auckland milfordcentre.co.nz

GET A

FREE CHRISTMAS STOCKING*

FASHION

Oribe d ry textu

Coo la scre en b y Sun

Tropical Mango Mask

by Osmosis

12 DAYS OF Christmas

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From stocking ďŹ llers to the present of your dreams, Verve edits the best of beauty gifting for 2019

Advanced Hydration Mask by Josh Rosebrook

Kaia rant eodo

al D

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Hydrate & Glow Skincare Essentials by Bobbi Brown

Cleanser by Eve Lom V ERV E M AGA ZIN E .CO.N Z

Illu Tr min eat ate me E nt ye a by n Os d Li mo p sis

h rus irb reyl Ha tle nor G ris o ar B By Le l Bo ura Nat

Oribe pray by rizing s

House of Jo Malone London

DEC 2019

BATHING Beauty

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From swimwear and cover-ups to beaching accessories, Verve shares spring/summer beach trends and everything in between.

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1. Seed – Pom Pom Sarong, $44.90 / 2. Seed – Fringe Tote, $79.90 / 3. Kowtow Swim – Lines Long Sleeve Top Cobalt $239 / 4. McMullin & Co – Suzie Beach Chair $149.00 / 5. Kowtow Swim – Classic Brief Chalk $129 / 6. Kowtow Swim – Lines Top Cobalt $139 / 7. Birkenstock – Madrid Big Buckle $230 / 8. Seed – Quilted Pool Slide, $44.90 / 9. Ingrid Starnes – Royalist Dress $559 / 10. Seed – Reversible Fan Tote, $89.90 / 11. Paris Georgia – Louis Slip, $379 / 12. Paris Georgia – Larry Dress, $769

FASHION

RECYCLE RECYCLEBOUTIQUE.CO.NZ

NEWMARKET, AUCKLAND CBD, TAKAPUNA

RECYCLE BOUTIQUE

WE SELL QUALITY SECOND HAND CLOTHING AND ACCESSORIES. WE SELL THE ITEMS ON YOUR BEHALF. YOU GET 50% OF THE SALE PRICE. SIMPLE AS THAT.

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NEWMARKET | MILFORD | WELLINGTON MISCHIEFSHOES.CO.NZ

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DI AMO N D REVOLU TI O N LABORATORY CREATED DIAMONDS SET TO SPARKLE

Iconic brand Michael Hill announces launch of Fenix Laboratory Created Diamonds in New Zealand Off the back of their 40-year celebration, Michael Hill has introduced their latest endeavour, Fenix Laboratory Created Diamonds, to their Albany and St Lukes stores and online.

With the next step in the evolution of diamond jewellery upon us, Michael Hill’s laboratory created diamonds are certified, quality alternatives to mined diamonds. These diamonds give greater choice to customers and maximise their ability to make decisions on the Four C’s – Carat, Clarity, Cut and Colour.

With over 300 stores across New Zealand, Australia and Canada, the Michael Hill vision remains the same: creating quality jewellery that customers can treasure for a lifetime. CEO Daniel Bracken says that the company’s commitment to craftsmanship will extend to the Fenix Laboratory Created Diamonds.

“Our jewellery has always been made with a focus on quality, design and authenticity,” he says, “Whether it’s mined or laboratory created, Michael Hill offers New Zealanders crafted, fine jewellery that they’ll treasure.”

www.michaelhill.co.nz

Developed using a method of recreating the Earth’s forces in a specialised growing facility in order to provide laboratory created diamonds that are physically, optically and chemically essentially the same as natural mined diamonds.

FASHION

THESE BEAUTIFUL JEWELS ARE EXQUISTE TO SANDERS

SANDERS OF REMUERA | 385 REMUERA RD | 09 520 3630 SANDERS OF ST HELIERS | 5 ST HELIERS BAY RD | 09 5752086

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SANDERSJEWELLERS.CO.NZ

BARON LEATHER GOODS

Baron & Buxton Leather Goods was established in Auckland in 1967. New Zealand owned and operated with all the traditional values you would expect from a family business.

Back Road Overnight Bag

Baron NZ Handbag

Back Road Briefcase

Baron Ladies' Wallet

Baron Leather Back Pack

Buxton Men’s Wallet

Buxton Keycase

Baron Handbag

Dopp Leather Toilet Kit

MONDAY – SATURDAY / 10.30AM – 4.30PM 128 APIRANA AVE, GLEN INNES (OPPOSITE THE CHEMIST WAREHOUSE) 09 528 7052 / LEATHERGOODS.NZ

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9 THIS IS BY FAR THE COOLEST RING AROUND! CHUNKY HANDMADE KUMKUM COCKTAIL RING IN STERLING SILVER SET WITH FRESHWATER PEARLS AND ZIRCONS.

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Summer Jewels

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1, 2 & 3. LES NÉRÉIDES collection available at Sanders / 4. LISA HOSKIN – Emily Amey Morganite Ring With Side Opals / 5. LISA HOSKIN – Set of Two Gold Stretch Bracelets / 6. LISA HOSKIN – Gold Knot Bangle / 7. BRIE LEON – Onda Drop Stud Earrings / 8. BRIE LEON – Valentina Glass Bead Hoops available at Paper Plane / 9. ATMOSFAR – Hotcake Sterling Silver Ring.

V I S I T T H E PA R N E L L STUDIO BY APPOINTMENT L I S A H O S K I N .C O .N Z LISAHOSKINJEWELLERY

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INTRODUCING NEW LABEL LILAC & SAGE BROUGHT TO YOU FROM VERGE V I N C E N T 2 3 N U F F I E L D S T, N E W M A R K E T 319 REMUERA ROAD, CNR NORANA & REMUERA RD R 6 2 4 7 F N W Y N I T A T O P, R 5 9 2 1 X B T L I L I A N A J E A N

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It’s Christmas time. There’s something quite magical about this time of year, even amid the frenzy of present buying, food shopping and the logistics of feeding extended family and friends. The days are both warmer and longer, we know there’s a few days off on the horizon and life generally feels a touch less uptight.

As with any change of season it’s also time to take stock of your wardrobe. Christmas Day itself means getting dressed up (perhaps in a new outfit). Summer fashion is all about prettiness in both colours and styles that we seem to miss in the cooler months. With that in mind, here are a few ideas that might make planning your summer wardrobe that bit easier: Dresses are your friend. A summer dress will take you from a picnic at the beach to a barbecue with friends.

They can be dressed up with some lovely heeled sandals and some jewellery or dressed down with a cute pair of trainers. Dresses are not only easy to wear, they also hide a multitude of sins – put on a couple of kilos and no-one would ever know. Look for a lovely, cool cotton or linen in a relaxed fit and maybe try this seasons’ longer length.

Nothing works better in summer than a pair of white pants. Whether you like to bare your legs in shorts, you prefer a capri or ankle grazer or you like a full length, white pants look great. Team these with coloured sandals, your sunnies and hat for daytime or dress up with a bit of sparkle for relaxed evening glamour.

Linen. Wow, linen is everywhere this season – from shirts, dresses, pants and jackets, linen is huge right now. Cool and lovely to wear, linen lends itself to a relaxed fit (think wide legged pants and boyfriend shirts) which adds to the comfort and ease of this natural fibre.

Summer Savvy

JACKIE O’FEE / SIGNATURESTYLE.CO.NZ / 09 529 5115

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Print is everywhere. Actually, print is always everywhere but in summer print tends to be lighter and brighter, and nothing quite says “summer” like light and bright.

Sandals are a summer staple and this season the ropeheeled espadrille is still a very strong trend. Pick a style and heel height you can wear all day with skirts, shorts, jeans or dresses and you’ll seldom be out of them. So much more stylish than a pair of jandals.

Jackie O’Fee is owner of Auckland’s leading personal style consultancy, Signature Style. She offers a range styling services that are perfect as Christmas gift vouchers. Further information can be found on her website: signaturestyle.co.nz or give her a call on 09 529 5115

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HEALTH, BEAUTY & FITNESS

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sun-kissed / Summer

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10 1. Mecca Cosmetica Lip Love, $60.* — 2. Korres Hydra-Biome Probiotic 9 Superdose Face Mask, $76.* — 3. Maison Francis Kurkdjian Amyris femme, $272.* — 4. NuFACE Fix Shimmer All Night Collection, $256.* — 5. Light Radiant Face Illuminator Trio, $89.* — 6. Kosas 10 Second Eyeshadow in Copper Halo, $48.* — 7. Summer Fridays CC Me Serum, $110.* — 8. Westman Atelier Eye Love You Mascara, $107.* — 9. Living Proof Go Beyond Clean, $93.* — 10. Sol de Janiero Bum Bum Carnaval Getaway Set, $43.* — 11. Bondi Sands Fragrance Free SPF50+ Daily Face Sunscreen Lotion, RRP$19.99. Available at Unichem and Life Pharmacies. — 12. Urban Decay Naked Honey Eyeshadow Palette, $91.* *Exclusively available at MECCA and meccabeauty.co.nz V ERV E M AGA ZIN E .CO.N Z

WORDS: KELLY JIN / PHOTOGRAPHY: HONG JANG HYUN

kincare S r

What to Swap and What to Save

ty au

K- b e a l a

Su m m e As the mercury rises, we’re quick to bury our tired winter coats and brandish our bikinis - so, why don’t we do the same for our skincare? In Korea, it’s commonplace among ladies (and men) to prepare their summer skincare lineups just as they would their wardrobes. See, the key to K-beauty is understanding what your skin actually needs and you don’t have to be a rocket scientist to see that what your skin requires on an icy winter’s day is a little different to what it needs when it’s 29-degree barbecue weather. So, here are a few tips that will help you do summer skincare in true Gangnam style.

When it comes to sunscreen, more is more Of all the skincare steps, sunscreen feels the most like a chore, but it’s one that’s unavoidable and you should be doing it daily. In fact, in summer, experts say you need to step it up a notch and reapply it every few hours, especially when you’re taking a dip in the pool or beach or you happen to perspire a lot. If you’re not a fan of the messy side of sunscreen, you’re in luck, because the Koreans have now made sunsticks a thing. That’s right, long gone are the days of slapping on watery Jif-like fluid, because now you can just rub this solid sunstick on your face and you’re done – no muss, no fuss.

For everything else, less is more When it comes to the rest of your skincare lineup, go lighter. Summer heat can trigger your pores, creating more oil and unless you want to look like a glazed doughnut, it’s best to shift out the heavier creams, opting for lighter gels. If you would rather die than part with your glorious creamy moisturiser, consider using

it as a night cream and subbing in a more summerfriendly cream during the day.

While it may seem counterintuitive since your skin may feel oilier and more clogged, you should also consider taking your exfoliation down a notch as it can make your skin extra sensitive to the sun. This applies for both physical and chemical exfoliation (acids and enzymes).

If you’re worried your pores will start to clog up, try alternating with a gentler exfoliant.

Antioxidants are your new best friend You already know antioxidants are great for you because every blueberry commercial out there won’t stop talking about it, but did you know you can apply these to your skin, too? Antioxidants are anti-ageing powerhouses that you need to ramp up in summer because of the harmful free radicals from sun exposure. If you have sensitive skin, try a soothing, anti-inflammatory antioxidant like green tea, or if you have tougher skin with some pigmentation issues, go for vitamin C, which has skintone evening properties.

Mist is a must Korean women know that hotter temperatures aggravate and sensitise the skin, which can lead to inflammation and redness. Nobody wants that – after all, it’s Venus not Mars that is usually the summer goddess inspiration. A great solution is a cooling mists that also contains antioxidants to keep your skin calm and collected throughout summer. Most Koreans take these everywhere from work to the beach!

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Abdominoplasty WO R D S — D R K ATAR Z Y N A M AC K E N Z I E, P L A S T I C S U R G E O N

The skin and muscles of the abdominal wall can be stretched during pregnancy or excessive weight gain or loss.

Over time, the skin loses its natural elasticity as it has been stretched beyond the point that it can naturally recover.

This leaves loose skin and fat which can cause difficulty with clothing and may look unattractive. The abdominal muscles can become stretched or separated, further adding to a lack of tone. Lower back pain and lack of core strength are commonly associated with this.

Exercise and diet can help to reverse these changes to some extent but in many people, it is difficult to get back into the shape. In these instances, surgery may be helpful to tighten the muscles and remove the excess skin.

The important thing to remember about abdominoplasty is that it is not about weight loss; it is about altering the skin and muscles to produce a firmer look and feel.

What is abdominoplasty?

Abdominoplasty, or ‘tummy tuck’, is an aesthetic procedure performed to improve the shape and contour of the abdomen. The operation is undertaken to remove excess skin, stretch marks, and fat, and it can tighten the underlying abdominal wall muscles. It offers improved contouring, core strength and appearance.

Combining the abdominoplasty with liposuction to the waistline can enhance its effectiveness for some patients.

Who is a good candidate for abdominoplasty?

A tummy tuck is a highly individualised procedure. The common reasons for considering a tummy tuck are: • Extra skin on the abdomen and abdominal muscle weakness due to ageing, pregnancy, weight fluctuations • Sweating and dermatitis under the fold of excess skin • Difficulty participating in sport • Self-consciousness due to the appearance of the abdomen • Weakness of the abdominal wall muscles which creates a bulge when straining or lifting What are the limitations of abdominoplasty?

• Obese patients often have excessive fatty tissue within the abdominal cavity, which is behind the abdominal muscles.

This cannot be removed by a conventional tummy tuck • The scar of a tummy tuck is designed to lie low, so it will be hidden behind underwear. However, the scar may not be perfectly even • A tummy tuck cannot correct stretch marks, although these may be removed if they are located on the areas of excess skin that will be excised • Internal or external scars from any previous abdominal surgery may also affect the candidacy Where will the incisions be?

The incision for a full abdominoplasty usually runs above the pubic hairline, from hipbone to hipbone. The shape and length of the incision is determined based on the amount of correction needed. There may also be an incision around the navel.

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Are all abdominoplasty procedures the same?

There are a variety of different abdominoplasty procedures depending on the age and specific circumstances. These include: Liposuction Typically, liposuction is suitable for patients without stretch marks who have goodquality elastic skin and whose main problem is an excess of fat. Often patients have what might be termed a 'pot belly' — a slight excess of fat in the lower tummy.

Mini abdominoplasty A mini-tummy tuck is usually recommended for those who have always been in fairly good shape but cannot achieve their aesthetic goals with diet and exercise, who have a slight excess of skin and fat, especially below the belly-button.

Full abdominoplasty In patients with a greater degree of slackness, excess skin, excess fat and splaying of the muscles, a classic tummy tuck may be required. An incision is made from hip to hip, and around the belly button.

Some additional areas may be treated with liposuction and the muscles above and below the belly-button are tightened. Although this operation leaves the biggest scar, it provides the greatest degree of improvement in shape.

Extended abdominoplasty In cases of extreme weight loss, it may be more appropriate remove more tissue than is usual in a full abdominoplasty. If the incision extends around the hip to improve the contour of this area, it is termed an extended abdominoplasty.

Reverse abdominoplasty Instead of having a scar at the bottom of the abdomen, the scar is placed to lie under the breast crease and between the breasts. This operation is usually only performed in particular situations, for example after someone has already had a traditional abdominoplasty but still has a degree of upper abdominal skin and fat excess.

How long does the effect of abdominoplasty last?

Although the results of a tummy tuck are technically permanent, the positive outcome can be diminished by significant fluctuations in weight. For this reason, individuals who are planning substantial weight loss or women who may be considering future pregnancies may be advised to postpone a tummy tuck.

Abdominoplasty will not prevent the effects of normal ageing. Once the skin is tightened, it will get looser with ageing.

What are the complications of abdominoplasty?

In general, abdominoplasty is safe, and the results are entirely predictable, with an associated high degree of patient satisfaction. Nevertheless, no surgery is without risk.

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HEALTH, BEAUTY & FITNESS

Need a lift?

Ever fancied a face-lift, but don’t fancy going under the knife? Good news, Lovely by Skin Institute offers Ulfit.

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Ulfit is the latest in non-surgical skin tightening and body contouring treatment that uses advanced high-intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) technology to firm, tighten, lift and contour skin on the face and body. Tighten and lift your forehead, eye area, cheeks, jowls, neck, wrinkles and double chin, or contour or tighten the abdomen area. In just one or two treatments you can see dramatic results.

Pricing starts from $249.

HOW WAS YOUR EXPERIENCE WITH LOVELY BY SKIN INSTITUTE?

The procedure is well-loved for its effectiveness, minimal downtime and reduced discomfort compared to other lifting procedures. Ulfit tightening and contouring is available for the abdomen as well as the face and neck.

High-profile fans include Bella Hadid and Kim Kardashian West, who famously used the procedure to tighten her stomach post-pregnancy.

FRAN: I really enjoyed my experience at Lovely. They were easy to find—all branches are conveniently located in Westfield shopping malls—and parking was painless as well. The Lovely therapists are warm, friendly and professional, and décor is light, uncluttered and tasteful.

Great care was taken to explain what the treatment is all about and to establish if it was right for me and follow up texts and calls to find out how I was feeling post-treatment were much appreciated. Treatment rooms are super comfortable and totally private.

Nicknamed the 'lunchtime lift' for its ease and quickness and taking just about an hour and a half for the full face, it works to tighten, contour and lift using skin tightening and lifting technology. This technology stimulates the skin’s natural regenerative process while also lifting the deep muscle layer beneath it (the same muscle layer—SMAS— that surgeons work on when performing surgical facelifts).

Results typically develop as collagen production increases in the 6-12 weeks post-treatment. A tighter, more contoured appearance generally lasts from 12 to 18 months, and possibly longer.

Verve editors Jude and Fran tried out the Ulfit treatment on their faces. Read on to find out about their treatment experiences.

JUDE: I had a senior therapist perform the treatment on me.

She explained what was involved clearly with the results and I felt totally at ease with her working the ultrasound wand on my face. She was incredibly confident, which I feel is very important when one is working so closely to your face!

HAVE YOU NOTICED ANY DIFFERENCES IN YOUR SKIN SINCE THE PROCEDURE? FRAN: Straight after the procedure, the skin on my face felt really hydrated—in fact, I felt glowing. I did experience a tiny bit of bruising in the week that followed. I understand that post Ulfit treatment can take up to three months for major benefits to show up. I eagerly anticipate the newer, fresher me! Watch this space.

JUDE: My treatment was done approximately three weeks ago—my skin feels smoother and I am feeling there are fewer lines visible. I am sure as time goes on it will keep improving.

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Pharmacy Elstree DO YOU THINK YOU WILL GET THE TREATMENT AGAIN IN THE FUTURE?

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JUDE: Yes I would have the treatment again—I look forward to doing this again.

FRAN: My therapist, Natasha, recommended two Ulfit treatments; I am keen to see optimal results and happy to invest in a second treatment.

BEFORE

AF T ER

*Results are for Ulfit Abdomen tightening immediately post one treatment. Individual results may vary.

DID YOU HAVE TO TAKE ANY DOWNTIME AFTER THE PROCEDURE?

Come and see us for fantastic gifts for all ages, all of your family’s health needs and excellent advice.

JUDE: No downtime at all—I was back at work after the treatment—I had no side effects at all.

FRAN: No downtime at all – straight back to work in fact.

(It is not called the lunchtime facelift for nothing!)

For more information about Ulift, visit lovelybyskin.co.nz

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“Hairdressing taught me about face shapes while bodybuilding taught me about body shapes: now I do the whole package, and just love it,” says Yvonne Marvin – former bodybuilder, current personal trainer and the force behind the fat freezing treatment at Coolbody (sister clinic to Sapphire Appearance Medicine Clinic).

Yvonne, has spent a lifetime in the beauty industry, having owned three salons, and was a New Zealand hairdressing champion, prior to getting into bodybuilding.

*All three areas done at the same time.

New Zealand Champion Body Builder “I’d always battled with my weight and took up weight training in my 40s. I did it for six weeks and was blown away by what it could do,” says Yvonne.

the principle that fat cells and tissue are vulnerable to temperature changes. The controlled cooling treatment activates apoptosis—controlled cell death—which gradually and naturally eliminates stubborn fat from the body.

Eating Her Words “We develop fat cells until we’re about 22 or 23, after that they swell or shrink with weight gain and loss,” says Yvonne.

“When Margaret first explained Cooltech I was disbelieving but I’ve had to eat my words. I’ve done so many treatments now. If I’m not happy with the results I’ll do it again – that’s my personal guarantee.”

She then decided to compete as a bodybuilder. “I didn’t want to make a fool of myself so I trained for three years and won the New Zealand title. This inspired me to want to help people over 35 look great so I became a trainer,” says Yvonne.

Cooltech Fat Freezing Yvonne had been a patient at Sapphire Clinic for a long time when co-owner, Dr, Margaret asked her if she’d like to become a practitioner and manage their new clinic, Coolbody.

“My background means I look at bodies differently from other people,” says Yvonne. “It’s not about weight loss it’s about shaping. We’re lucky to have the best machines in the world.”

Yvonne has learnt so much about the Cooltech procedure, which uses cryolipolysis technology. This works on

B EFO R E

A F T ER

The Treatment “I take a caliper reading, punch the result into the machine and then you lie on the bed,” says Yvonne. “I pop a cold cloth on the area so the skin doesn’t burn followed by the machine’s handpieces. People then read, work or relax for 70 minutes while the area freezes down; it doesn’t hurt, it feels numb.

We have two machines so we can work on multiple areas. It’s very clever, I get blown away by the results.” Results are seen in as little as 15 days after treatment with optimal results two months post-treatment.

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Pimp Your Smile

The idea of visiting the dentist often fills people with dread but that’s slowly changing as dentists offer more procedures to improve the aesthetics of your smile, rather than just root canals and the like! Treatments like the Philips Zoom Whitening Treatment, which gives you gleaming teeth and more confidence in your smile, which is especially important in the lead-up to Christmas, what with all those celebrations and photos!

The Philips Zoom Whitening Treatment consists of a check-up with a dental hygienist to assess the suitability of the treatment for your teeth. If your teeth are not up to the treatment, the professionals will not proceed. If okay to proceed, a medical professional will cover your lips and gums, leaving just the teeth exposed. They’ll then apply whitening gel and work with the Zoom light to break up stains and discolouration on the teeth.

JUDE

How was your experience at Greenlane Dental Cosmetic Surgery? When I walked into the Greenlane Dental Cosmetic Surgery, it was such a welcoming experience. I can honestly say everyone I met in this luxurious – but not overstated – surgery gave me the feeling of trust and friendliness. Each person that greeted me was smiling – perhaps because they all had beautiful teeth and felt very confident, because having white teeth does make one feel very confident.

Following the procedure, customers are given a home touchup kit to keep their new smile lasting longer. The Philips Zoom Whitening treatment goes deeper than at-home kits and lasts significantly longer. It can take you up to eight shades lighter than your original colour.

Can you explain the procedure of the Philips Zoom Whitening Treatment? It started with an appointment with a dental hygienist for a clean. I have to admit, I’ve never been to see a dental hygienist.

I always looked after my teeth but, like many, it was always the last on the list of must-do’s because of the expense. The dental hygienist had an incredibly soothing voice which instantly made me feel totally relaxed. She explained very clearly what the procedure was and took me on the journey of scraping, cleaning, and rinsing. She made the experience one that I would love to repeat – it’s recommended you visit a dental hygienist every six months and I think it’s worth every penny!

Verve editors, Jude and Fran, received a complimentary Philips Zoom Whitening Treatment at Greenlane Dental Cosmetic Surgery – the treatment changed their smiles and boosted their confidence. They both found the service professional and luxurious, and wanted to share their experience with readers.

Then came the whitening treatment which was a very easy treatment to endure. It happened in three 15-minute slots. At the end of each time slot the hygienist took a look to check all was fine. I had a very small amount of sensitivity on my drive home but other than that it was very minimal.

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Were you happy with the results? Did you notice a change between the before and after? The result was fantastic! My teeth felt amazing with all the plague taken off and gaps between my teeth. On first look at my teeth, I felt that it looked rather odd to have the gaps – those triangles of gum between each teeth – but then I realised this is how they should look like without plaque! The before and after photos were great to see. I was also incredibly happy with the change in colour – at least three degrees lighter, whiter and brighter. I kept looking at my teeth in the mirror whilst driving home. So yes very happy with the results.

FRAN

How did you find the service at Greenlane Dental Cosmetic Surgery? From start to finish, the service at Greenlane Dental was top notch. Staff went above and beyond to ensure that I was comfortable and at ease. I enjoyed the novel touch of being able to sit in their super effective massage chair (it even massaged my legs) while filling in pre-treatment forms. Television screens located on the ceiling gave me something to focus on while oral health therapist, Harneet, was busy in my mouth.

This was not the first time I have had a whitening treatment, but without a doubt it’s the best I have experienced. Prior to

commencing the Zoom whitening treatment, Harneet performed a thorough check-up of my mouth, and then proceeded to clean and polish my teeth like they had never been cleaned before. She also chatted to me regarding dental concerns that I had, making the odd recommendation here and there. Like the rest of the staff at Greenlane Dental she was professional, cheerful, and a pleasure to be around.

Were you happy with the results? Was there a noticeable difference? I was thrilled with the results. I am not sure if it is the same for you, but there are certain things about myself that I have never liked, one of them being my teeth… which are a long way from resembling those even, bright white pearlers I long for. After the Philips Zoom Whitening treatment, I noticed that my teeth were two shades whiter. (I believe that Philips Zoom Whitening can get your teeth up to eight whiter but I have had whitening before so we couldn’t go too drastic.) The best thing about this holistic treatment, is that my smile confidence levels are up too.

Would you recommend visiting Greenlane Dental Cosmetic Surgery? And, do you think you’ll get another Philips Zoom Whitening Treatment? Absolutely – 100%. I love feeling that I am able to smile unreservedly – no holds barred. So, it’s a yes from me!

If you’re also interested in getting a gorgeous smile for the summer, then you can find your nearest provider at Philipszoom.co.nz. For a limited time, everyone who completes a Philips Zoom Whitening Treatment will receive a free 360PRO Waterflosser, valued at $129.

09 520 1521 — I N FO @ G L D. C O. N Z — 2 05 G R E AT S O U T H R D, G R E E N L AN E 147

HEALTH, BEAUTY & FITNESS

Mrs Claus has you Sorted

It is never an easy task trying to source that perfect gift, but do not panic if you have not found it yet. At Louise Gray, we have made life simple for you! We have put together some gift ideas that we know your loved ones will absolutely adore this holiday season.

“We can tailor a gift pack for that special individual you want to surprise.”

Wishing you and your family a very safe and happy holiday season.

The Daughter Make sure that she is Instagram-ready with Coola Sun Screen at the beach this summer. No beach selfie will be complete without the blue and white spray bottle.

Top off her look with a wash of colour with Liplux SPF 15. Without her knowing it, you will have her protected throughout which we hope, will be a long hot summer.

AKA Louise Gray from Louise Gray Skin Care

Yours in skin health, Louise Gray Senior Therapist and Director of Louise Gray Skin Care.

The Vegan Ilcsi pronounced “il-chi”, the raw goodness of this plant-based cosmeceutical skincare is in no way flowery, fluffy or frilly. It is packed full with skin-loving vitamins, hydrators, antioxidants, AHAs and nurturing oils. Ilcsi is also certified cruelty-free and being plant based, you will be ticking lots of boxes with these wonderful gift packs. (We are in love with this new product line.)

The Woman That Has Everything You know that she deserves something truly special, but finding that elusive gift can be quite daunting. So let’s use her DNA to show her exactly what her skin really needs.

A simple mouth swab will unveil the mystery of Ultimate Skin Health with a unique prescription tailored – ‘for the women that has everything!’

The Number One Mum She is the glue that holds the family together and you need the gift that proves to her that you are her favourite child. One Truth 818 is sure to delight, clinically proven to support the ageing process, strengthening and repairing all in one. This telomere supporting formulation has been developed in New Zealand with the support of Nobel prize-winning scientist Dr Bill Andrews.

The Just In Case For the wonderful friend that pops in or your child’s music teacher - we have a number of Dermalogica ornaments that can be conveniently hanging on the tree for those ‘just in case’ moments. They are also the perfect travel companions for yourself after the tree is taken down.

Your Man’s Travel Essentials Has your man been secretly stealing your products? If so, then it’s time you got him his own! The easiest way to get him started is with a Travel Essentials pack. While he is away let him experience our latest arrival Gentlemen’s Tonic. The world’s first cosmeceutical line developed exclusively for men’s skin.

And Just for You….

This is the perfect time of year to stock up on all of your favourite products as many of them are in seasonal gift packs.

Dermalogica, Mesoestetics and Ilcsi we have you covered!

2 /2 24 K EPA RD, MISSION BAY / LOUISEGR AY.CO.NZ / 0 9 528 9 010

T H E T E A M AT M O R T I M E R H I R S T W I S H Y O U A

HIGH STREET +64 9 3798950

ST HELIERS +64 9 5758650

TA K A P U N A +64 9 4861952

W W W. M O R T I M E R H I R S T. C O . N Z

NEWMARKET +64 9 5201000

HEALTH, BEAUTY & FITNESS

Well, well, well, if isn’t the consequences of my own actions.

It starts innocently enough by looking in the mirror and ends with a sinking feeling. That split second where you decide you need your hair done right now is usually followed by a call to your hairdresser only to find out they are booked solid for the next week.

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Having convinced yourself that if you step outside the neighbours will don their pitch forks and light the torches you panic and start ringing random salons in the vicinity. Finally settling on somewhere that has plenty of appointments available, and soon the reason why becomes obvious.

Now imagine if this wasn’t your hair, imagine if this was your face. Where bad bangs will eventually grow out and a hat can make a real fashion statement a balaclava is not as widely accepted in polite company.

If we didn’t laugh, we’d cry, but unfortunately that’s how some patients present to our clinic. With only a small amount of treatments being reversible it is often a case of waiting for the effects to wear off over time. But a few simple steps can help avoid the floods of tears and feelings of regret and frustration over a moment of madness.

Firstly, a cosmetic procedure is not something anyone should rush into. All procedures carry an element of risk and it’s important to understand what these risks are and exactly how your practitioner intends to minimise and manage these.

Swelling and bruising are the two most common side effects of most procedures. This can last from 12 hours to five days depending on the person and the product. If you’ve had dermal fillers you may experience some small superficial lumps which may require a return visit so these can be gently massaged and moulded away.

More serious side effects can occur with dermal fillers like an injection into an artery where your practitioner will need to dissolve the filler out of the area to prevent any tissue breakdown. This is why it is essential to choose a

practitioner who has a risk management plan in place, is experienced and has 'dissolving' products called hyaluronidase on the premises.

Secondly, make sure you understand all your options. Find out what the procedure involves and how long the effects are expected to last. Ask what alternative procedures are available to address your areas of concern. Here at Clinic42 we have a large array of treatments on offer to cater to a wide range of patients.

Don’t be afraid to ask questions. At Clinic42 we are always happy to answer all your concerns, this helps us ensure you are fully informed and, to better understand your expectations. Equally don’t be offended if your practitioner recommends against a treatment you may have seen on a celebrity which they feel doesn’t suit your needs. We all remember the Rachel from Friends hair debacle of the '90s; what looked great on Jennifer Anniston did not necessarily look good on everyone! Our goal is to minimise your concerns and maximise your best features because no two faces are the same and every face is beautiful.

Thirdly, a good before and after picture speaks a thousand words, so make sure you ask to see some, another indication that you’re are in safe hands is to look for the New Zealand Society of Cosmetic Medicine logo. The NZSCM diploma means accredited members are extremely well trained and adhere to strict safety standards and guidelines.

We hope these simple steps will help you to make a safe and informed decision before embarking on any cosmetic treatments.

Please call Clinic42 to arrange a 30-minute complimentary nurse consult if you would like to find out more about the wide range of treatments available.

Alternatively, call and book with one of our four cosmetic physicians, who will be happy to discuss your concerns, and the best treatment approach for you.

321 MANUKAU RD, EPSOM • 09 638 4242 • CLINIC42.CO.NZ

Albany I Takapuna I Ponsonby I Auckland CBD I Parnell I Mt Eden I Remuera

formespa.co.nz

HEALTH, BEAUTY & FITNESS

Are you on the Hormonal Rollercoaster?

Balance your hormones, regain control and feel ... Fantastic!

Hormonal changes can have a dramatic impact on your physical and emotional health.

By understanding the hormonal pattern within the body, it is possible to individualise treatment to establish hormonal balance.

260 Oropi Road, PO Box 15032, Tauranga 3144 Ph: 07 543 4999

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LEVEL 5, 12 ST MARKS ROAD, REMUERA LEVEL 3, 19 COMO STREET,TAKAPUNA

V ERV E M AGA ZIN E .CO.N Z

09 520 0755 ORTHO.CO.NZ

SMOOTHER, MORE CONFIDENT YOU! Finesse Face and Body Clinic is proud to be the first TruSculpt ID provider in New Zealand, as part of an exclusive partnership with Cutera.

TruSculpt ID is the latest technology available to permanently and non-invasively remove body fat.

“We have been leaders in non-invasive cellulite and body contouring treatments in Auckland for 17 years,” says Sue Crake, owner of the Remuera salon.

HOW DOES TRUSCULPT ID WORK? TruSculpt ID employs a unique form of low frequency monopolar radio frequency energy that penetrates deep into the adipose tissue and is able treat the entire fat pad. Given each patient’s unique biological complex the TruSculpt ID is able to adjust the energy output to compensate for fibrous tissue ensuring each patient receives an optimally effective treatment.

HOW IS TREATMENT PERFORMED? An initial evaluation is performed to frame the desired treatment areas. A total of six hand pieces may be used to target an area that is larger than three CoolSculpt cool max applicators (approximately 12 SculpSure applicators).

Each hand piece is gently applied using a piece of double sided tape and then wrapped around the body ensuring full contact. Patients have reported experiencing mild heat with an overall high level of comfort during the 15-minute session.

HOW DO I KNOW IF I AM A CANDIDATE? Unlike other non-invasive fat removal procedures such as CoolSculpt and SculpSure TruSculpt ID does not have any BMI (body mass index) or weight restrictions. Almost anyone can be treated with the TruSculpt ID. HOW MANY TREATMENTS WILL I NEED? Ninety-five percent of patients will only require one treatment per area! We can treat multiple (as many as three) areas in a single 15-minute session!

591A REMUERA ROAD (UPLAND ROAD SHOPS)

BEFORE

12 WEEKS AFTER 1 TREATMENT

BEFORE

12 WEEKS AFTER 1 TREATMENT

IS THE TREATMENT PAINFUL? No! Patients report the treatment feels like a warm stone massage. Some feel the heat in the first minute to be a bit intense but then adjust to the treatment.

HOW LONG BEFORE I SEE MY RESULTS? Results will be noticeable immediately (firming, improved skin tone and texture, some reduction), however, fat cells are removed over a period of time and maximum results will be achieved at 12 weeks.

• • • • • • • •

TruSculpt ID Benefits Treats an area 3x larger than CoolSculpting’s coolmax (largest applicator) From just 15 minutes!

Painless Safe for use in obese and morbidly obese patients Suitable for male and female Tightens the skin by remodelling collagen Amazing results-some patients have reported over 35% reduction in fact (***measured by ultrasound in clinical trials) Treat ALL areas including the abdomen, love handles, bra rolls, chin, thighs, arms and calves

CALL TO BOOK YOUR FREE CONSULTATION

09 520 5331 FINESSEFACEANDBODY.CO.NZ

NATASHA VERMUELN, SELFIE COURTESY OF ENDEMICWORLD

THE ART OF

If you’re feeling the need to escape the chaos of consumerism, single use plastic everything and society in general, take some time-out at an art gallery. Gather your thoughts, engage with your intellectual side, challenge your mind or just zone-out at the pretty colours.

Although many galleries are closed in January, they will all be open leading up to Christmas. Post-December, all the majors will be open for business as usual and are an excellent way to enjoy a day with family, of just take some wellness time for your soul. Here are some suggestions for your Dec–Jan art calendar.

Closed 25 Dec – 6 Jan

Auckland’s fashion district, Newmarket, houses Sanderson Contemporary, a gallery which boasts a range of New Zealand artists well worth investing in. So, if you find yourself shopping in the area, put some time aside to pop in. Their Summer Showcase with multiple artists is currently on display.

Closed 25-26 & 30 Dec Reopens 3 Jan

Right at the top of Ponsonby Road resides Endemicworld. With mainly print editions and some originals available, it’s an excellent place to find a visual treat for under $500.

Closed 25 Dec

There’s always so much to see at Auckland Art Gallery. The beautiful work of Louise Henderson From Life and international exhibition Denmark Design are but a few on display over the holiday period.

Closed 25-26 & 30 Dec – 2 Jan

The Pah Homestead hosts a changing programme of contemporary art exhibitions from the Wallace Arts Trust Collection as well as additional curated shows. With a wide range of art events including exhibition openings, talks, musical performances, activities and café, there is always something on for the whole family to enjoy.

Aimée Ralfini sat down and chatted with curator Emma Jameson about Denmark Design at the Auckland Art Gallery.

Podcast now playing via Artache on Spotify and iTunes.

LOUISE HENDSERSON BUSH SERIES 3 COURTESY OF AUCKLAND ART GALLERY

In the heart of Auckland’s art district of Karangahape Road you’ll find Melanie Roger Gallery, well known for its stable of exciting contemporary artists. This December the gallery exhibits its summer group show Ice Cream Salad.

BELINDA GRIFFITHS COURTESY OF EDEN ARTS AND WALLACE ARTS TRUST

Opening 11 Dec Closed 22 Dec – 29 Jan

WORDS: AIMÉE RALFINI

ART & ABOUT

What's On December Words — Mya Cole

22

NOV

––– 27

DEC

A FRICKIN DANGEROUS SPACEMAS Basement Theatre is back with its annual Christmas Show written by local sketch comedy trio Frickin Dangerous Bro. Pax Assadi, Jamaine Ross and James Roque’s A Frickin Dangerous Space-mas invites audiences on a wacky space adventure featuring a bounty of bizarre and hilarious cosmonaut characters alongside a rotational guest cast of some of New Zealand’s most famous faces to surprise and delight theatre-goers each night.

It’s going to be out of this world... literally!

Basement Theatre, Lower Greys Ave

05

DEC

FIRST THURSDAYS First Thursdays summer edition is nearly here!

On Thursday 5 December from 6pm until late come and experience an incredible line-up of local diverse talent, showcasing what makes Karangahape Road so creative and unique.

You can expect an array of art, music, dance, installations, markets, and all that other good stuff Karangahape Road has to offer. Stay tuned for more announcements!

07

DEC

––– 08

DEC

Karangahape Rd

07

DEC

BAZ LUHRMANN'S ROMEO & JULIET: 1996 SOUNDTRACK PERFORMED LIVE The magic of Baz Luhrmann's Romeo + Juliet was recasting Shakespeare's timeless romantic tragedy in the heady rush of mid-'90s cool, with a soundtrack blending grunge, dance, classical, opera and dawning girl power into a record-breaking chart phenomenon. Don’t forget to dress for hedonistic success.

The Civic Theatre, 269-287, Queen St, 8pm

NECTAR This exhibition champions goddesses, heroines and powerful mythological women. The eight artists draw on their own cultural backgrounds to celebrate female figures from myths and legends. The resulting works share fresh perspectives and reveal finer details often left out of each story. Nectar was developed by curators Cora-Allan Wickliffe and Madeleine Gifford for Mangere Arts Centre - Nga Tohu o Uenukun.

13

DEC

––– 14 DEC

Mangere Arts Centre, 10.30am

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VINTAGE LUXURY HANDBAG AND ACCESSORIES SALE Hawkeye Vintage are back bringing you an amazing collection of Vintage Chanel, Louis Vuitton, Fendi, Dior, Celine, YSL and more handbags and accessories! 100% authenticity guaranteed and all items are vintage from 1980s, '90s and early noughties. All items are on sale and always a fraction of the price from buying new at the boutiques, Up to 60% off.

City Life Hotel, Phoenix Room, 171 Queen St

DEC 2019

15

DEC

CENTRAL FLEA MARKET Come along experience a curated selection of vendors of furniture, vintage clothing, collectibles and antiques, as well as a selection of jewellery, art and crafts by local stallholders and designers, plus delicious food trucks and coffee. Three generations of second-hand dealing has led to the creation of the Central Flea Market. Flea markets are a dying breed here in Auckland, which is why Central Flea will be offering a curated selection of both vintage and food stallholders.

25

JAN

––– 27

JAN

170 Balmoral Rd, Mount Eden, 8am

20

DEC

ARTSPACE AOTEAROA RAUMATI PARTY Nau mai haere mai, you are invited to celebrate the beginning of summer and say farewell to the upstairs space on Level 1, 300 Karangahape Road. Since 1998, Artspace Aotearoa has hosted numerous exhibitions, events and conversations on Level 1. Before the move downstairs, we want to invite all of our wonderful friends and supporters to eat drink and be merry once more. There will be a selection of beverages available, BYO is welcome and kai will be provided also. Bring your dancing shoes, AWB will be playing a selection into the night.

Waiheke Island Resort, 4 Bay Rd, Palm Beach

18

JAN

Artspace Aotearoa, 300 Karangahape, 6pm

31

DEC

BRITOMART BLOCK PARTY NYE 2019 Britomart Block Party returns with one huge party to send you into 2020 with Auckland's biggest New Year's Eve festival, right here, in the heart of the CBD! Across three clubs and one massive street party! Featuring a massive lineup of live music, performers, DJs and entertainment, there's something for every reveller this New Year's!

Britomart, 8pm

24 JAN

––– 27

JAN

EXQUISITE WAIHEKE POOL PARTY Picture taking a cruise to Waiheke Island, being swooped up and whisked away to a private resort five minutes walk from a golden sand beach, complete with pool, spa, minigolf course, licensed bar and restaurant, sea views, and a selection of Aotearoa's finest to lay down the soundtrack for the party of this summer. With an afternoon of hip-hop by the pool, easing into a Liquid Drum & Bass Sunset, and with MONTELL2099 himself taking us on a 90-minute journey through sound. Grab one of the strictly limited dozen rooms to stay at the resort in a self-contained studio apartment, 30 seconds from the main stage, and complimentary high tea and bubbles on arrival.

AUCKLAND INTERNATIONAL BUSKERS FESTIVAL Back for another year with extraordinary performers from across the globe. Audiences will get to experience lively performances of magic, hula-hooping, breakdancing, art, music and more. The first two acts have been confirmed, with astounding hula hoop artist Lisa Lottie, and the Portuguese master of crowd interaction Pedro Tochas. Eight astonishingly talented acts will bring their aweinspiring street performances to Auckland to get crowds laughing, gasping and cheering.

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TAKAPUNA BEACH SUMMER DAYS FESTIVAL Takapuna is your ultimate summer destination with the I Love Takapuna Summer Days Festival on 18 January at Takapuna Beach Reserve. This event is FREE and open to the whole community, so bring your friends, family, and loved ones along and celebrate summer with us. From 3pm until 7pm, jam with amazing local artists as they perform your favourite hits on stage. Wear your jandals, grab some takeaways from the 150 different hospitality outlets in Takapuna, or the food trucks on site and get ready for a brilliant summers day. Full entertainment schedule and musical line-up to be announced - so keep an eye out! The festival will also include delicious food trucks, free bean bags to relax in and of course our beautiful beach and reserve.

Takapuna Beach, 10am – 7pm

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ART & ABOUT

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CHANGE E M RS A G

For the Verve Christmas works do we headed to the wonderful Archie Brothers Cirque Electriq in Newmarket’s new Westfield where, along with old-school favourites like bowling, dodgems and racing car arcade games, awaits virtual reality experiences and a thrilling XD theatre where you can shoot demonic clowns as you ‘ride’ a rollercoaster’s twisting tracks. It’s certainly, a far cry from my very first video game console (a hand-me-down Atari Pong) and an even further cry from playing Guess Who with my cousin or countless rounds of noughts and crosses with my ever-patient nan.

ANCIENT GAMERS TO MIDDLE AGERS Though three-row ‘board’ games have been found on tiles from Ancient Egypt, noughts and crosses (also known as tic-tac-toe) most closely resembles terni lapilli, one of the most popular pastimes of the Roman Empire, it required three to five pebbles to be placed in a row (now available to download as an app—more on those later).

Around 3,000BC, a form of draughts—or checkers— was born in Mesopotamia (modern-day Iraq), with backgammon established around the same time in nearby Persia (today’s Iran). But stretching all the way back to Egypt 3,500BC, Senet is the oldest board game, and though the exact rules are unknown, it’s considered a possible precursor to chess owing to its use of pawns on a multi-grid layout—and was even found in Tutankhamun’s tomb.

However, chess, too, has adopted many a different iteration throughout the eons, the modern version evolving from the seventh-century Indian game of chaturanga which is Sanskrit for ‘four arms’(once used to denote the four divisions of the army—infantry, cavalry, elephantry and chariotry—and now also the name of a yoga pose). India, too, gave the world snakes and

ladders, which, rather charmingly, was invented around 200BC as a way of teaching children about morality— climbing up the ladders representing good behaviour and sliding down the snakes showing bad. It was introduced to Western countries following the British occupation.

Dice, crafted from clay, cubical stones and even bones, were created independently by numerous ancient cultures and first used for the purpose of gambling, it is thought, by the Ancient Greeks (though gambling was illegal at the time). While on the subject of gambling, most agree playing cards originated in the east, probably China, with mentions of paper tiles in Tang Dynasty scrolls. There is 14th-century European literature that refers to cards arriving from Arabia, and other writings concerning India’s tarot ones. The four classic suits of today originated in France, possibly representing classes of Medieval society (hearts for clergy, spades for military, diamonds for merchants and clubs for peasants), though, historians aren’t quite sure. Aces weren’t incorporated until the 18th century, jokers a century later.

In 1889, a Japanese firm founded by Fusajiro Yamauchi also began selling playing cards. The company was called Nintendo.

DEC 2019

Xs IN BOXES TO XBOXs & ATOMIC BOMBS TO APPS In 1904, a US writer named Elizabeth Magie created a rudimentary board game called The Landlord’s Game to highlight social inequality, but soon discovered players took greater satisfaction from gathering piles of cash at the expense of their opponents instead. In 1933, the idea was picked up and tweaked for commercial sale

by Pennsylvanian games designer Charles Darrow and within two years he became the world’s first board game millionaire. Darrow’s version was called Monopoly. The following few decades marked a golden age of boards games, spawning the likes of Scrabble, Risk, Yahtzee, Cluedo and Trivial Pursuit.

In 1958, William Higinbotham, a US physicist who helped develop the first atomic bomb, created the first interactive video game, called Tennis for Two—the precursor of Pong. Four years later, MIT researchers created Spacewars, the first computer-based video game, but, frustratingly, it costs so much to manufacture it would be years before it could be mass produced.

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“TIME IS A GAME PLAYED BEAUTIFULLY

BY CHILDREN” – HERACLITUS

The first commercially sold arcade game, Computer Space, was created in 1971 by Nolan Bushnell and Ted Dabney and over the following 10 years came the first home console, Magnavox Odyssey; legendary video console company Atari, loaded with Pong, then changeable game cartridges; and then iconic arcade games like Space Invaders and Pac-Man. The ‘80s gave rise to Nintendo starring Donkey Kong, Tetris and Super Mario Bros, while urban planning game SimCity was a surprise super-sensation. Sega arrived at the close of the decade, propelled by Sonic the Hedgehog. The ‘90s heralded the arrival the Sony PlayStation whose popularity eventually forced Sega to drop out of the video game arms race, but not before revolutionising the industry with the Dreamcast, the

world’s first internet-ready offering. Sony’s answer, at the dawn of the new millennium, was the DVD-friendly PlayStation 2 whose graphics were superior to a computer. Microsoft entered the fray the following year with the Xbox marking the beginning of an ongoing Lionel Messi versus Cristiano Ronaldo-like battle over ultimate greatness. Nintendo piped up their Wii in 2006 to get gamers off the couch and smashing countless TV screens and windows as controllers slipped from frantic, sweaty palms.

Two years later another revolution arrived in the form of mobile gaming as Apple launched their App Store.

Barely a decade passed before mobile gaming overtook consoles. In 2012, Angry Birds pulled in more than $300 million, with more than two billion downloads by 2014.

ART & ABOUT

TO INFINITY, AND BEYOND “Video game companies spent decades marketing blockbuster releases and pricey console hardware to a niche community of technology enthusiasts,” notes Business Insider’s Kevin Webb, “but the quality and accessibility of smartphone games have changed what it means to be a ‘gamer.’”

With the development of 5G, mobile users will enjoy faster speeds and even more spectacular viewing experiences that promises to re-revolutionise augmented reality gaming. (For those unsure of the difference between augmented and virtual realities, AR blends fantasy with the real-world environment—think Pokémon Go—usually via a mobile device to allow for actual exploration, while VR involves the wearing of a headset to insert static players into an imaginary world.)

By 2021, 200 million people—mainly in Asia and the US—are expected to have access to 5G, when millennials will be aged, on average, 34, the “prime gaming demographic”, according to San Fran tech website VentureBeat: “Combine this millennial ascension with the ever-increasing number of women playing games and you start to see how video games are set to take off.”

Ready to capitalise, tech giants such as Google and Apple are launching their own streaming platforms for gaming apps.

“The gaming industry is about to enter not only a new generation of consoles,” writes Tom Hoggins for The Telegraph, “but seemingly a new way to access games altogether in form of multiple, Netflix and Spotify-style subscriptions services.”

But ironically—and perhaps somewhat comfortingly— as gaming has become ever more fantastical, traditional tabletop games have experienced something of a renaissance; some have even labelled it another golden age. More than 5,000 board game cafes opened in the US in 2016, while Research and Markets predicts a nine percent growth in the global board game market between 2017-2023, reaching values of more than $18 billion.

Game on.

Words — Jamie Christian Desplaces

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ON THE SPOT MOBILE REPAIRS

VISIT MOBILE LAB FOR A WIDE RANGE OF PHONE AND TABLET ACCESSORIES AND REPAIRS. MOST REPAIRS WITHIN 25 MINS. WARRANTY WITH ALL REPAIRS. GREAT QUALITY AT LOW PRICES. 09 215 5009 / WESTFIELD ST LUKES, LEVEL 2 Opposite Farmers

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CROSSWORD

ACROSS

DOWN

Its charm's obscure to 9 6 across (9) See 9 Down Metal boyfriend? On the contrary, I'm holding uranium (9) 12/23 Drink, and French police turn cold on trouserless Scot and actress (7,8) Love rural town dropping the limits (5) 13 Add cash to crash? (5) 14 Past like to pot and going, going? (6) 15 Constellation of the Timeless Grape? (5) 16 The Doctor's Doctor? (4,3) 19 Teed off about 10, easing the tension (7) 20 Wet-on-wet painting defacing a rail lamp (4,5) 22 Drink tea to obtain happiness (almost) (7) 27 Pacify with fresh sausage (7) 28 A song of praise to motor lubricant? You can leave 29 me out (5) Old knight is brought back by Isis (6) 31 Cash boy with directions to follow? (5) 33 Hound game, and how it may lie (5) 34 "The best bang since the Big One" ? (3-4) 37 12/23's character assassination of tawny foal 38 (3,2,4) Finished with girl in Ireland (7) 39 Spooner described what this insect does (9) 40

1 6 10

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9/6A 11 16 17 18 21 23 24 25 26 30 32 34 35 36

City of superheroes? (4,4) Organise Oriental congress (8) A 40 may imitate Ouroboros? (11) Dunedin suburb reverses a McCahon statement (4) Wrestler, 14-love (4) Epic tale of climbing Swedish cookers (4) What Bill de Blasio currently does like a uid (5) Retiring yet sociable? (8) A 1 across 29's producer of sour humbugs (8,7) Do your duties, holding tongue (4) We object after Bonnie, for example, caught without a backbone (7) A 40 jumping (though not ship, presumably) (7) A 40 of higher rank than the last one (7) Fastener used to hold ref back from payment to switch teams (8,3) See 12 Across A 40 who escaped Devil's Island (8) Prince's companion, female, a Pole, about 50 (8) Being representative of French heritage (8) Revelry of Oliver Gray after vacation (4) I'm tuneful, they say, over cakes (5) Hollow l-light raised (4) Lump of earth? Not quite (4) Trying to solve a problem operating computers (2,2)

Visit vervemagazine.co.nz for the answers.

BUSINESS / EDUCATION & SOCIETY

Feline Secrets Revealed The Strand Veterinarian

The Strand Veterinarian veterinary nurse, Jolene Causer, tells us about her love of cats.

162 I have always had a fascination with cats ever since I can remember.

Their mysterious looks make me think they know the answers to the universe. Some believe cats do not see a difference between us and themselves, we are just a bigger clumsier version of them — so they bring us presents, toys which are alive or dead, to help to teach us how to survive.

To me they are the most loving pet, as they give their whole heart unconditionally to the human they love. After all, they were treated like gods in Egypt for a very good reason.

As a vet nurse for over 20 years, I thought I would share a few fun cat facts:

“

In ancient times cats were worshipped as gods; they have not forgotten this.

”

• Cats have great hearing and vision, but they have an even better sense of smell. It is 14 times better than a human's, with cats having 200 million smell receptors. Cats are thought to have a better sense of smell than dogs due to a vomeronasal organ called a Jacobson’s organ. This is found in the roof of their mouth behind the front teeth, concentrating the scent, smell and taste — which helps them distinguish different pheromones.

• Cats have a very interesting language which is a mixture of body language, scent signals and vocalisation.

• Cats are the only animal that can make a sound while breathing in and out continuously, this is purring. They can also meow at the same time as they purr by folding the vocal folds, giving them a deeper noise than you would think possible. You often hear this when they are carrying prey in their mouth and wanting to let you know they have a present for you.

• Cats release pheromones for different purposes: marking territory, signalling when they are on heat, when they are content and when they are scared amongst other things. When smelling the pheromones, they can identify different colonies, create familiarity, promote bonding, learn more about other cats and even self-soothe.

DEC 2019

• The frequency of cat purrs is between 25 and 150 Hz, which is the frequency at which muscle and bone repair themselves.

• Because cats are solitary animals naturally, they do not use vocalisation to communicate with each other. So, cats have taught themselves to ‘meow’ just to communicate with their owners. They have done this by mimicking what they think we sound like. They have demanding urgent meows through to soft chirping.

• Cats eating grass is a normal behaviour, the general understanding is that it helps to move food or hairballs through the digestive tract. It may also provide them with essential trace elements in their diet, so it is recommended that cats without access to grass outside are provided with a source indoors. ‘Cat grass’ is great for this.

• The average cat can jump eight feet in a single bounce — nearly six times their body length.

• A group of cats is called a clowder. A female is called a molly, or a queen, and a male is a tom.

• Cats ears can rotate 180 degrees so they can hear what is going on around them. This helps with listening for their pray. They also use their ears to let other cats know how they are feeling.

• Cats can only sweat through their paws. They are built to withstand high temperatures, being

originally desert creatures. Cats cool down by staying in shade and grooming, releasing saliva on to their fur. The sweat from their paw pads is often stress-related but can also occur when overheated.

• Cats are predominantly lefties.

• Cats knead you when they feel safe in your presence, or when they are on their favourite blanket, leaving a pheromone behind. This is carried over from kittenhood, suckling their mother’s teats and kneading on either side to stimulate milk flow. Sometimes they even start drooling with the pleasure of a good knead.

• Kittens are born deaf and blind. It takes about two weeks for their eyes and ears to open so they can see and hear.

• A cat’s nose has ridges on it that are as unique as a human’s fingerprint.

• Cats tell you that they love you in a variety of ways such as scenting you by rubbing their face on you and continue with their whole body ending with wrapping their tail around your leg. They will knead you then look at you, slowly close and then open their eyes (you can also tell your cat that you love them by doing the same thing).

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• Although cats are naturally solitary creatures, they are very adaptive to new environments and most are living in a multi-cat or a multi-pet household.

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BUSINESS / EDUCATION & SOCIETY

PAUL GO LD SM IT H

National to invest in quality education for our kids Education is a great leveller in society.

National wants every child to have the opportunity to succeed no matter who they are or where they have come from.

Smaller class sizes means more teachers. National is proposing a number of ways, including financial incentives, to attract more people to the profession, or to get people to return to teaching.

National’s Education Discussion Document outlines many proposals we want your feedback on, and reconfirms our commitments.

We’re also considering changes to initial teacher training, which include strengthening practicum requirements, accredited schools involved in teacher training and more support for teachers who mentor beginning teachers.

In early childhood education (ECE) we continue to focus on those critical first 1,000 days for a child, on social investment and on the quality of education and care our children receive in those foundation years.

A quality education comes from our teachers, but it also comes from strengthening the curriculum. We want local curriculum to thrive and teachers to have world class curriculum resources. Children must leave school with firm foundations in core areas of reading, writing and maths.

We’re proposing spot checks on ECE services to ensure they are meeting the required standards. If they are breaking the rules, we’re proposing that these services be put on notice and parents informed. If problems aren’t fixed quickly, services will risk losing their license to operate.

National will also support teachers so they can spend more time actually teaching.

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Too often our teachers are burdened with too much bureaucracy. Teachers should be focussing on face-to-face time with our children.

Last year Simon Bridges announced National would reduce class sizes in primary schools. We are committed to this policy and have now released draft student-teacher ratios.

More time with a teacher means more opportunities for children to ask questions and get answers, and for teachers to focus on areas where a child may be struggling.

It’s also important parents know how their children are progressing. National will ensure we continue to improve school reporting systems, including better access to online reporting. Parents deserve to know what their child is doing and what areas they need to improve on to succeed.

National is also proposing some changes at the tertiary level. First year Fees Free has been an expensive failure. Not only has it not increased participation, but there are fewer learners now than before. It’s been a waste of hard earned taxpayer money.

We also oppose the government’s Reform of Vocational Education. National will return polytechnic assets and decision making back to regional polytechnics. We know the regions and local industry are best placed to teach their students.

Enter into the contest of ideas with your feedback at national.org.nz/education.

HON PAUL GOLDSMITH NATIONAL LIST MP BASED IN EPSOM PAULGOLDSMITH.CO.NZ • 09 524 4930 • PAUL.GOLDSMITH@PARLIAMENT.GOVT.NZ Authorised by Paul Goldsmith, 107 Great South Rd, Epsom

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DEC 2019 J U ST R EN TA L S LT D MR EI NZ

Christmas, My Favourite Time Of The Year!

I love the Christmas songs, the twinkling lights, the fresh Christmas trees being sold at the roadside, the decked-out shops, and of course, the food.

The Christmas pudding, I shall make, and use my mum’s recipe for fruit mince pies, along with so many other goodies. One does not feel so guilty eating naughty things at this time of the year, you are allowed.

It has been a very difficult and busy year for us in many ways, and we realise how important it is to be healthy and happy. So, Graham and I are off to visit my sister in Noosa for Christmas, a nice break but maybe a little too warm— though we shall still enjoy it.

The changes keep coming.

Ninety-days’ notice is an essential lifeline for us property managers. It means that we can actually get bad tenants out without having to give a reason. It can all start getting nasty when you have to explain to the tenants why they

have been given notice: it could be because of the noisy parties they have most weeks, Airbnb, or association with patch members. You may have told them many times such things are not allowed, but they just ignore your concerns.

No property manager issues these notices lightly, it has to be for a good reason. In the 20 years of property management I could probably count on one hand the amount of 90-day notices I have given.

Courtenay will be managing Just Rentals while we are away, so business as usual. Shall start packing the suitcases, get out the bathing suits and sunglasses and of course a good book to read, or maybe two...

We are very excited and know we shall come back home refreshed and ready for the New Year.

Merry Christmas everybody.

Sylvia Lund AREINZ Just Rentals

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SWERVE

Over Achiever Suzuki Baleno RS Review

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In business, there are a multitude of ethical vision statements that both entice the consumer and focus the attitude of the workforce, but one of my all-time favourites is to ‘underpromise and over-deliver’. To me, this simple ethos shows an underlying confidence in a company’s product or service that ultimately results in a very happy client or customer, and it’s this exact sense of over-achievement I felt when getting behind the wheel of the new Suzuki Baleno RS. The new Baleno doesn’t claim to have the room of an SUV, however, it comes with plenty of cabin and luggage space.

It doesn’t claim to have the handling of a sports car, but it does tackle corners with vigour and aplomb. It doesn’t claim to be lavishly adorned in fine leather, but its finishing is modern and uncluttered (plus, it has a leather wheel), and it doesn’t claim to have a powerful V8, but its one-litre, threecylinder engine will more than just raise your eyebrows.

What the Baleno does claim to be though, is an exceptional ‘everyday’ car, and that is indeed, what it over-delivers on.

First of all comes its size and style. This (sub four metres long) compact, four-door hatch is shapely, well contoured and bite-sized. It nips in and out of traffic, handles central city congestion well and is very easy to park. My RS model came with a sportier bodykit, a chrome blade across the tail, 16-inch alloys, a little more bright wear and 145mm of ground clearance (25mm more than the standard Baleno). However, despite its pertness, the cabin will seat four with ease and five if they’re comfortable with each other, plus 355 litres of luggage space (756 litres with seats folded flat).

When it comes to technology and safety, the team at Suzuki have managed to deliver there too. LED projector

headlights that are self-levelling, Suzuki’s Total Effective Control Technology (impact absorption), electronic stability, cruise control, hill-hold control, reverse camera, Apple and Android connectivity, a six-speaker stereo, SatNav and (in the case of the RS) a performance screen that shows engine/turbo data and G-Force — phew.

Then there’s that engine. Being a fan of large cc’d powertrains, the thought of 998cc (one-litre) propelling the vehicle I am driving generally leaves me a little cold.

However, not so with the Baleno RS. 82kW and 160Nm outputs makes the Baleno rather swift, especially when delivered through the six-speed auto box (that has paddles too) and with its three-cylinder soundtrack, it emits a more powerful exhaust note under higher revs that’s more in tune with a ‘V-shaped' engine.

Having a week to explore the merits of having a Baleno in the family, I reset the odometer (and fuel consumption) and used the nifty hatch to the nth-degree. It shopped with us, it travelled to Orewa and beyond, it played in the city and carried a few member of the kids' football team to the game. In all, the kilometres used headed towards 500 while the fuel needle dipped gently to a quarter of a tank.

This is a frugal little hatch, offering (for me) an average consumption of 5.6L/100km, not far off its advertised 5.2 and with CO2 reported to being 121g/km, it’s both wallet and environment assisting.

The Suzuki Baleno RS offers space, style, performance and tech. It’s nippy when it wants to be and very efficient when not being revved to the limit. Exception ‘everyday’ car is Suzuki’s way of putting it, I’d prefer to call it a little over-achiever.

WO R D S — DAV E M C L E O D

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Aston Martin DB11 AMR review

More oohs and ahhs.

WO R D S —DAV E M C L E O D

Naming your children after you is one thing but, you've got to have a certain type of personality to put your name to a car — that or be pretty sure that it's ‘legacy worthy’.

Thankfully in David Brown's case, his Aston Martin DBs are both. From the iconic and movie star showstopping DB5 to the stunningly handsome DB11, it's a nameplate that has over the years, offered plenty of ‘oohs’ in terms of driving thrills, but with the latest AMR version, it now comes with some added ‘ahhs’, too.

ahead. At the rear of the front wheel arches are ‘Curlicue’ gills, aero-slits that spiral the build-up of air produced by the wheels, down the side of the car. While on the subject of wheels, the AMR’s are specially created 20-inch forged alloys that are lighter to the tune of 3.5kg. The AMR does retain the Aeroblade, a cleverly designed invisible tail spoiler that channels the air from the GT’s C-pillar and magically creates downforce (the spoiler does raise up under certain circumstances too).

Launched in 2016, the DB11 immediately received more than its fair share of positive attention, and why wouldn’t it? Sporting Aston Martin’s former owner ‘DB’ nametag, this gorgeous looking Grand Tourer may have come as a successor to the DB9 but being the first car off the ‘second-century plan’ rank and showcasing a jaw-dropping design directly from the creative mind of Aston’s design director, Marek Reichman, it really took DB made quite the statement. Originally a V12 then followed by a V8 version around a year later, the DB11 was a GT for sure, but what about the brand’s racing roots? Well, now there’s an AMR (Aston Martin Racing) ‘facelift’ version that effectively replaces the previous V12. And I got to drive it.

The chassis, suspension, steering and electronics have all been reworked allowing for greater distinction between the GT, Sport and Sport+ driving modes and let’s not forget its deliciously more aggressive exhaust note too.

Aston has tweaked and fettled with virtually every area of this GT, some mild and others not so. More power, enhanced aerodynamics, improved ride and handling and increased ‘smarts’ has arguably transformed the new DB11 into the car it always promised to be.

Dressed in deep onyx black with standout lime painted, sixpiston brake calipers, my review model DB11 AMR looked both sleek and just quietly, a little foreboding, especially since I knew about the uprated V12 that lay under the now ‘soft-close’ clamshell bonnet. Aston has, in their infinite wisdom, added an extra 30 horses to its already powerful 5.2-litre engine, taking it up to 630hp while keeping its ‘noneight-speed gearbox shattering’ torque to 700Nm, which, believe me, is plenty. 0-100km/h comes in at 3.7 seconds and top-speed (should you get the chance), will have you at 334km/h. However, the improvements to the new DB11 AMR don’t just stop under the bonnet.

The DB’s already advanced and refined aerodynamics have been taken to the next level with the trademark AM grille being enhanced to allow better airflow and the lower spoiler blade is razor-sharp, cutting its way through the wind

Make no mistake, the AMR is more performance led then the original V12 iteration, but don’t let that worry you. Around town and in GT mode, it’s malleable and (relatively) easy to get along with. There’s plenty of tech to keep you in tune with your surroundings, the wide-opening doors and slim sills allow for simple access and exit and even the exhaust doesn’t scream ‘LOOK AT ME!’ The interior is soft leather in Dark Knight black contrasted by signature AMR lime and carbon fibre accents. The front seats are a perfect mix of comfort and support, while the two in the rear will happily accept your iPad or (very) small family member, plus it even has a boot.

But what you really want the DB11 AMR for are those times when you’re free of the traffic and free of prying eyes. The push of a button on the steering wheel engages Sport (and then Sport+), the suspension firms, thanks to the adaptive damping and the exhaust baffles clear... a loud, sport and sportier drive ensues. The 0-100 speed is quick, supercar quick, and yet it all feels rather civilised. Same goes for the ride itself, fast and responsive yet ultimately manageable, you don’t feel like you’re making it do something it doesn’t want to—oh, and that V12 sound, especially since it revs to 7,000, is almost inexplicable.

Angry and fierce, yet placid and refined, the new DB11 has you covered. It’s a performance GT that excites, but it’s a car that you’d be just as keen to take on a long weekend away.

The firmer suspension, quick gear changing, tight turn in and thunderous voice in Sport and above is sure to make you ooh. However, rest assured in GT mode this DB11 AMR will make you ahh, too.

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OWN IT TRADE IT RETURN IT With Honda EasyOwn the end of term buy back value is guaranteed. So you can pay the balance to own it, or trade it, or return it. You choose.

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WO R D S & I N S P I R AT I O N — M AN I S H K U M AR AR O R A

SAGITTARIUS 22 NOVEMBER — 21 DECEMBER

ARIES 21 MARCH — 19 APRIL

LEO 23 JULY — 22 AUGUST

Your efforts shall be giving tangible results in this month. You may decide precisely what is to be done for some betterment in your professional field and plunge into action. This is a time when you need to define, understand, and crystallize your significant relationships with others. This is a time when any issues surrounding compromise, flexibility, and the ability to give your heart to your partner will surface.

During this month, energy is poured into work and establishing a professional reputation. You will be better equipped to move forward on work projects and to establish new and improved health and fitness routines. If single, you might begin to pursue a relationship more heartily and with more confidence. You tend to see others as individuals, and to improve the manner in which you relate to and with others.

You may increase your knowledge and skill set, and find much enjoyment in so doing. You express your ideas with more enthusiasm and positivity, and they are received well. You are more equipped than ever to go after exactly what it is that you want in life. Superficial areas of your life will be removed or transformed, and you are freer to express your authentic self.

CAPRICORN 22 DECEMBER — 19 JANUARY

TAURUS 20 APRIL — 20 MAY

VIRGO 23 AUGUST — 22 SEPTEMBER

You have a strong interest in broadening your mental experiences in general, and finding expression of your personality through them, perhaps through higher education or exploring different philosophies of life. This is not a time to push yourself or to be involved in activities that require intense competition or a great expenditure of energy. Cooperative, harmonious personal and professional relationships are more important to you at this time.

You are likely to see and enjoy benefits to your earning power and value system.

You’re in excellent shape for drawing up plans or new designs related to business and money matters now. It could very well bring a profitable and productive period.

You are likely to feel more confident and enthusiastic about your ability to earn a living, and this can help you to attract more income.

You’re in a friendly and cooperative mood which brings ease to your interactions and an overall sense of harmony to your day.

Being with people and enjoying good times — especially with beautiful, charming, light-hearted people — is really what you want now. This is an excellent time to go out on a date or ask someone for a favour, because you make a decidedly positive impression at the moment.

AQUARIUS 20 JANUARY — 18 FEBRUARY

GEMINI 21 MAY — 20 JUNE

LIBRA 23 SEPTEMBER — 23 OCTOBER

It’s a good time for analysing how to better approach achieving your goals, both personally and professionally. A strong need for harmony, affection, approval or belongingness colours your attitude and decisions now. The relationship begun now is likely to be sentimental, and perhaps somewhat insular. This is a time when you really enjoy life, appreciating the good things and rarely harping on the more inconvenient or annoying elements of life.

Your ambition is more intense and the need to find deep significance with regards to your social standing or professional life becomes very strong.

You may increase your knowledge and skill set, and find much enjoyment in so doing. Financial boosts are likely, although spending should be managed well in order for this to last in the longterm. Relationships are seen now as serious matters.

You gain what you want through diplomacy or charm and by enlisting the support of your friends, rather than by being forthright and bold. You are moving away from false paths and relationships that no longer serve you well, or transforming the same into more suitable ones. Relationships begun now are: emotionally charged, domestic, potentially long-lasting, somewhat private– they run deep.

PISCES 19 FEBRUARY — 20 MARCH

CANCER 21 JUNE — 22 JULY

SCORPIO 23 OCTOBER — 21 NOVEMBER

You may be hesitant about taking professional action, second-guessing your instincts or your natural impulses rather than acting upon them. Meeting with obstacles in your path, can force you into the position of using all of your resources to fight back, and you can discover resources you never knew you had in the process! You could have problems staying calm, cool, and collected at times. Buried resentments come to the fore and demand to be dealt with.

You are inclined to take a few risks with your finances, or unusual ways of making money could be in place during this cycle. You become more attuned to subtleties in your environment and in everyday activities. You absorb the mood of those around you quite easily now, and your temperament is somewhat changeable as a result. A pleasant, affectionate, relaxed, or courteous attitude eases your interactions.

Your income might increase, and there may be an opportunity to improve your future financial situation. You are likely to see and enjoy benefits to your earning power and value system. You are likely to feel more confident and enthusiastic about your ability to earn a living, Sharing and comparing your spiritual, religious, or philosophical interests with a friend or loved one may open up a whole new dimension of your relationship.

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CREATING SPACE FOR WONDER AND CURIOSITY It has been said that the environment should act as a kind of aquarium which reflects the ideas, attitudes and lifestyle of the people who live in it. – LORIS MALAGUZZI At Bear Park, we work hard to create beautiful spaces that enable children to explore, discover, and engage with rich materials.

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